An increasing number of people who provide care for an ill or elderly loved one also work full or part time. At least 56% of caregivers under 65 are employed, and many are torn between the demands of their
job and providing quality care for their loved one. For them, balancing work and caregiving can feel like an impossible task.
Almost 75% of employed caregivers say that caregiving has had a negative impact on their mental or physical health, and half report they have less time for other family, vacations, hobbies, or their own
social life.
The pocketbooks of working caregivers take a hit too. Employed caregivers average an extra $197 in monthly costs, and they may have less income as well.
According to one study, 6% of caregivers have had to take a leave of absence from work, and 10% have worked fewer hours or taken a less demanding and lower paying job. Many have turned down promotions, chosen early retirement, or quit their jobs entirely to care for a loved one.
Some employers are becoming more aware of the impact of caregiving on the workplace and, rather than lose valued employees, are implementing programs to help. They’re offering innovative approaches
like flexible work schedules, referral services, even on-site eldercare. And the Family Medical Leave Act (FMLA) allows eligible employees of larger companies to take up to twelve weeks of leave for aregiving and secures their job (or an equivalent one) for their return.
Community resources can also help support family caregivers and make it easier for them to juggle the demands of caregiving and the workplace. Caregivers can learn about these resources at this website Boulder County Help Website by selecting Seniors and People with Disabilities, then Service Directory or call 303-441-1617 or by visiting with their local Resource Specialist at the senior centers.
Emily Cooper is Information and Assistance Specialist for Caregiver Programs with Boulder County Area
Agency on Aging. For information on BCAAA caregiver services, call 303-678-6116 or email her at Email Emily.