A recent AARP study reported that one in every two working adults has cared for an aging loved one in the last five years.
And this phenomenon is taking an increasing toll on the workforce. With all of the additional stress and complexities to manage as a working caregiver, this growing community of employees tends to have elevated levels of absenteeism and presenteeism (being at work but not working effectively), costing employers between $17.1 and $33.6 billion annually and increasing tension among team members.
But the good news is that many companies are taking a stand and helping their employees better manage it all by introducing resources that include: educational seminars, online management tools, on-site support groups and flexible work schedules.
If a more flexible work schedule seems to be what the doctor orders, here are some tips for talking to your employer:
- Focus on productivity. Acknowledge that this new work schedule is a change, but emphasize the strengths of the plan you are proposing.
- End with common understanding. Make sure you understand exactly what your employer is willing to do by repeating back what you understood.
- Summarize the agreements you reached. Ask who will inform the organization about any changes, and get the changes in writing.
For more resources on how to manage working while caring for an aging adult in your life, visit www.liftcaregiving.com.
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