Working Caregiver- Balancing the Juggle
Working & Caring - Balancing Work & Life
Are you having a difficult time juggling work and caregiving? Are the demands of both stressing you out? I know when sitting at my desk and researching elder care topics for mom and dad was extremely time consuming, and a grave employer loss. And then my manager wondered out loud... "productivity is dropping, Carol." But at the time it wasn't so nicely said. Elder Care costs employers.
That was my struggle. Balancing my mom and dad's health and needs with my employer and also with myself! After all; I had a life too! Some helpful hints, especially when working full-time:
1. Don't keep it a secret - Let your employer/manager/HR know of your dilemma and needs around caring for aging relatives
2. Listen up - There are many family caregivers at work who too face those dreaded challenges. Develop your own caring support group at work. Believe me, when walking the halls at work, (discreetly) pay attention to a few phone conversations - you'll be surprised how many of us are facing same issues -
3. Build that support group - meet up during lunch hour (if you're not running an errand for your loved one) and ask for advice or referrals... family caregivers usually have a notebook full of valuable phone numbers and aging service referrals. Support is needed, so ASK FOR HELP! You are not alone.
Hope these spark a few ideas in your over-worked brain. I find these 3 tips to be very useful.
