|
Are you or is someone you know working full- or part-time and acting as a caregiver for a loved one? Here are a few tips to help keep life in a healthy balance:
- Ask your human resources or personnel department to give you information on the Family and Medical Leave Act. This law entitles eligible workers to a maximum of 12 weeks a year of unpaid leave for family caregiving without loss of job security or health benefits.
- Take advantage of flex-time policies. Consider asking for a flexible schedule if a formal policy is not in place.
- Manage your time well. When you must take time off for caregiving, set priorities and accomplish the most important things first. Delegate responsibilities when you can. Pace yourself; don't do so much in one area that you can't be effective in another.
- Get all the support you can from family members, friends and community resources.
- Take care of your own needs. Pay attention to your health; get enough sleep and exercise regularly. Take a break when the pressure gets too great. Talk with someone about your feelings and needs.
Source: "Balancing Work and Caregiving," AARP, www.aarp.org
Back to Health Notes
|