Caring for an elderly parent while working can be a complex and challenging experience. According to a 2020 report by the National Alliance for Caregiving and AARP approximately 16.8 million caregivers are providing care for an adult over 75 years of age. These statistics highlight the significant impact that caregiving can have on individuals and balancing work responsibilities with caregiving duties can be overwhelming. It is essential to prioritize self-care to avoid burnout and maintain well-being. In this article, we will explore some of the challenges of caregiving while working and provide tips on how to manage them.
One of the most significant challenges of caregiving while working is managing time effectively. Caregiving duties can be time-consuming, and caregivers may find it challenging to balance these duties with their work responsibilities. Family caregivers provide an average of 24.4 hours of care per week, with almost one-third providing care for 41 hours or more per week. To manage time effectively, caregivers can create a schedule that prioritizes their most essential tasks and includes breaks to rest and recharge. Additionally, caregivers can delegate tasks to family members or professional caregivers to free up time for work responsibilities.
Another significant challenge of caregiving while working is managing the emotional toll of caregiving. It can be a stressful and emotionally draining experience, which can impact a caregiver’s mental health and well-being. The 2019 Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research survey found that 37% of caregivers reported feeling emotionally stressed, while 22% reported feeling physically stressed due to caregiving. To manage the emotional toll of caregiving, caregivers can seek support from family and friends, join a support group, or seek counseling services. Counseling can provide a safe space for caregivers to express their feelings, gain support, and learn coping strategies to manage their emotions.
In addition to managing time and emotions, caregivers must also manage the finances associated with caregiving. A 2019 survey by Bankrate found that about one-third of caregivers spent at least $5,000 per year on caregiving expenses, and 20% spent $10,000 or more per year. Caregiving can be an expensive endeavor, and caregivers may need to navigate insurance, benefits, and medical bills. To manage the finances associated with caregiving, caregivers can seek the advice of a financial planner or elder law attorney to make informed decisions and ensure that they are maximizing their resources.
Moreover, caregivers must also manage the physical demands of caregiving. Caregiving can be physically taxing, and caregivers may need to assist their elderly parent with daily living tasks, such as bathing, dressing, and eating. To manage the physical demands of caregiving, caregivers can seek assistance from family members, hire professional caregivers or home health care services, or consider assisted living facilities.
Another challenge of caregiving while working is managing the relationships with other family members involved in caregiving. The 2019 Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research survey found that about one-third of Americans who are currently or have been a caregiver for an older relative or friend said that caregiving negatively affected their work, with 11% reporting that they had to quit their job to provide care. Caregiving can be a complex and emotional experience that can sometimes create tensions between family members. To manage relationships with other family members, caregivers can communicate openly and honestly, establish clear boundaries and expectations, and seek the assistance of a mediator if necessary.
Communication is critical when balancing work responsibilities with caregiving duties. Caregivers should communicate their needs and responsibilities with their employer to create a flexible work schedule or adjust their workload to accommodate caregiving duties. Many employers offer caregiver support programs and employee assistance programs that can provide resources and support for caregivers.
It is essential for caregivers to prioritize their own self-care. Caregiving can be a stressful and overwhelming experience that can take a toll on a caregiver’s mental and physical health. To prioritize self-care, caregivers can take breaks, engage in hobbies or activities, seek support from friends and family, and practice mindfulness or relaxation techniques. Neglecting one’s own needs can lead to burnout and negative health outcomes, making self-care a crucial aspect of caregiving while working.
Caregiving for an elderly parent while working can be a complex and challenging experience. Caregivers must manage their time effectively, manage their emotions, finances, and physical demands, navigate relationships with other family members, and prioritize self-care. Seeking support from family and friends, joining a support group, or seeking counseling services can help manage the emotional toll of caregiving. Communicating with employers, delegating tasks, and seeking flexible work schedules or employee assistance programs can help manage work responsibilities. Ultimately, by prioritizing self-care and seeking support and resources, caregivers can manage the toll this complicated journey can create.