TLC for Working Caregivers
By: Source: AARP.org Date Posted: 2006-04-03 14:35:05
Help is just a click away.
The numbers tell the story. According to a 2004 study by the National Alliance for Caregiving (NAC) and AARP, 80% of the care provided to older adults is done by family and friends, and more than half of these caregivers work full-time.
Although caregiving is rewarding in many ways, it can also be stressful - especially when a person is trying to juggle both family and work responsibilities. In fact, a majority of employees involved in caregiving admit their job performance suffers because they must make caregiving related phone calls during business hours, they have to arrive late or leave early, and they must take time off from work during the day for caregiving-related errands.
Balancing work and family commitments is never easy. But employers may be sympathetic to caregiving responsibilities, and there are resources that can help. Help is just a click away.
AARP Resources
- AARP - Caregiving
A one-stop shop of AARP's online content about caregiving. - AARP - Finding Help
Links and information to help new caregivers find resources in their community. - AARP - Caring for Parents
AARP offers three free online seminars for those who are caring for their parents. - AARP PPI Report: Who's Caring For the Caregivers ?
Additional Resources
- Eldercare Locator
The U.S. Administration on Aging can help you find local services. - Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)
Since 1993, federal law offers some support for working caregivers through FMLA. This allows eligible workers up to twelve weeks a year of unpaid leave for family caregiving without loss of job security or health benefits. - National Family Caregiver Support Program The Administration on Aging offers caregiver survivor tips in English, Spanish, Russian, and Chinese, as well as online groups.
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