We were always told to be careful with my mother because she was frail and had a heart condition. My father died nearly 40 years ago. As for Mom? She’s still going strong at 91. My friend has a child with dyslexia and behavioral problems….

We were always told to be careful with my mother because she was frail and had a heart condition. My father died nearly 40 years ago. As for Mom? She’s still going strong at 91.

My friend has a child with dyslexia and behavioral problems. There’s a lot of love in that home, and they’re working things out.

What do my mom and my friend’s son have in common? The cost to support them and treat them is quite high. With life spans increasing, families across the country are finding themselves a part of what has been called the sandwich generation, squeezed between caring for parents and children at the same time.

Fortunately for these families, who may be spending tens of thousands of dollars each year to care for their dependents, there are ways to get tax deductions. It just requires some preparation before filing taxes.

Get everything in writing

Remember, the IRS and insurance companies have different standards, and getting the treatment in writing is critical for all tax purposes—regardless of how you handle the expenses.

Make sure the dependents you’re supporting are diagnosed by a physician, psychiatrist, therapist, or other appropriate medical...