10 Tips for Caregivers

When Employees Face Caregiving......

1. Assess the situation. How serious is it? How much time is it taking out of your regular weekly schedule? What does the future look like?

2. Know in advance the medical wishes of the person you are giving care to before they are unable to share them with you. Work together on advance care planning by completing a Durable Power of Attorney Health Care (DPOAHC). You can find and print this at www.lifeproject.org in regular or large print.

3. Research your workplace for policies regarding employees who are caregivers or experience bereavement.

4. Talk to your boss about your situation and any anticipated time you will need to take off (such as accompanying someone to the doctor).

5. If your caregiving situation is not strongly affecting your job performance, use this time to plan for the future needs and discuss them with your employer.

6. If the situation requires more than a few hours away from work, you may be eligible for unpaid leave under the federal Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA). FMLA applies to organizations with 50 or more employees.

7. Communicate with your family and those involved with the person receiving Elder care and keep them current of any changes (good and bad).

8. Take time for yourself. Remember: you have more to give if your needs have been taken care of.

9. Know that you are not alone. There are support groups that meet regularly to discuss end of life issues that you and your loved one are facing. For more information about a support group near you call: 1-800-445-0116.

10. Contact The LIFE Project with any specific questions regarding any end-of-life issues.

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