Caregiving 2

Being an unpaid caregiver for a family member with Alzheimer’s Disease or another form of dementia, can be rewarding and is often the best possible choice for a family member.  There can be significant career consequences, however, that can dampen the enthusiasm and commitment of the most willing caregiver in addition to reducing overall family income.    

According to a results from a telephone survey conducted by the Alzheimer’s Association and the National Alliance for  Caregiving, 70% of employed caregivers reported caregiving interfered with their work.  The impact ranged from altered work hours to early retirement.  

Survey results showed that, among respondents:

66%  went to work late, left early, or took time off to provide care;

18%  took a leave of absence;

13%  went from full time to part time work or a less demanding job;

8%  gave up work entirely;

8%  turned down a promotion;

7%  lost job benefits;

6%  chose early retirement.

Some of these work modifications are likely to be temporary or short-term with little to no effect on long term employment opportunities, career trajectories, or career aspirations.  Others, particularly if prolonged, can seriously damage not only current earnings but also the future earning potential or career trajectory of the working caregiver. 

Fortunately, with some planning and creative thinking, there are ways to minimize the potentially devastating consequences of caregiving. 

Dignity Care Consulting can help you identify and implement alternative or supportive caregiving solutions that will satisfy an older family member while giving a younger family member the freedom to pursue a career path; both family members can then focus on enjoying their time together.