It can be challenging to meet your family caregiving responsibilities while holding down a full-time job. Family crises can get in the way of your job, and spending too much time at the office can lead to feelings of guilt. However, this continuous balancing act doesn’t have to be a source of anxiety. Here are 5 tips for juggling work and family caregiving.
1. Notify Your Boss
Some caregivers are wary of discussing their caregiving responsibilities with their bosses. However, notifying your employer about your specific family challenges is almost always a good idea. Your boss is likely to be more understanding if you come in late due to a family emergency and willing to negotiate about your weekly schedule.
If the nature of your job leaves little time for you to focus on your senior loved one’s health and wellbeing, consider hiring a professional caregiver. Mississauga in-home care experts are available to provide high-quality care to seniors on an as-needed basis. From assistance with mobility and exercise to providing transportation to the doctor’s office and social events, there are a variety of ways professional caregivers can help your aging loved one continue to live independently.
2. Alter Your Hours
If your caregiving duties change or increase, you may have to alter your work schedule. There are several options your employer might agree to, such as reduced working hours. Instead of coming in 5 days a week, ask if you can cut back to 4. If your caregiving responsibilities occur primarily in the morning, ask if you can come into work an hour later every day. If you change your work schedule, you may have to take a pay cut, but it could make juggling dual responsibilities much easier.
3. Work from Home
Thanks to modern technology, many jobs can now be completed from home. If your employer is amenable, you may be able to telecommute rather than go into the office every day. Working from home allows caregivers to be home for their loved ones throughout the day while keeping up with their work duties. Telecommuting provides caregivers with the most flexibility, allowing them to take an hour out of their day to take their loved one to the doctor or the pharmacy without compromising their work efficiency.
4. Seek Outside Services
For caregivers who still have to go to the office, outside services can be an invaluable resource. Look into the services available in your community. There may be an adult day care center that can accommodate your loved one during office hours. Look into nutritional aids, counseling services, and meal programs. When in need, you can always seek the support of friends and family members who may be able to watch over your loved one every once in a while. In-home respite care is also an excellent choice.
Mississauga respite care professionals can assist seniors with a wide array of daily tasks, offering family caregivers the chance to focus on other personal responsibilities or take a break to prevent burnout. Whether it’s for a few hours a day or a few days a week, respite care is the perfect solution for family caregivers who are feeling overwhelmed.
5. Focus on One Task at a Time
Many caregivers with jobs try to multitask and end up ignoring their loved ones’ needs. Instead of trying to do everything at once, focus on one task at a time. When at work, concentrate on work-related tasks. Use lunchtime and scheduled breaks for personal errands. When at home, give your full attention to your caregiving responsibilities. Whatever you’re tackling, try to be present in the moment. Work gets done faster and better when it has your full focus. At the end of the day, try to take a few moments for yourself because self-care is a key component of the caregiving process.
Families who need additional assistance caring for an elderly loved one should consider hiring a professional caregiver. Mississauga, Ontario, seniors and their families trust in Home Care Assistance to provide high-quality in-home care on an as-needed basis. Our caregivers take pride in helping seniors remain healthy while promoting their quality of life. To schedule a free in-home consultation, give us a call at 905-337-1200 today.