Caring for an aging parent while holding down a job isn’t just emotionally demanding — it can feel nearly impossible. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, you’re not alone. Millions of adults are in the same position, juggling meetings, appointments, and medications, all while trying to stay present at work and home.
This balancing act is one of the most significant challenges of being a family caregiver while working. The good news? There are realistic, compassionate solutions to help you manage both roles, including one many families don’t consider early enough: respite care. Even short breaks from caregiving can make a meaningful difference in your energy, emotional health, and ability to stay employed.
Can You Work While Being a Caregiver?
Yes—but not without a strategy. If you’re trying to manage caregiving while working full time, the key is to plan ahead, set boundaries, and access all the resources available to you.
Here are seven actionable steps that can make a significant impact:
1. Know Your Workplace Rights
If you work for a company with over 50 employees, you may be eligible for the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA). This allows up to 12 weeks of unpaid leave to care for a parent with a serious health condition, without risking your job.
2. Talk to Your Employer
More workplaces are becoming flexible, but they won’t know what you need unless you ask. Request:
- A modified or flexible schedule
- Remote work days
- Part-time hours or job sharing
These accommodations can help reduce stress without forcing you to quit your job.
3. Build a Support Team
If you have siblings, relatives, or close friends, now is the time to ask for help. Create a schedule, delegate tasks, and avoid doing everything alone.
4. Explore Financial Assistance
Many states offer programs that pay family members to care for loved ones, especially those on Medicaid. Veterans’ benefits, tax credits, and caregiver support grants can also help ease the financial burden.
5. Use Respite Care
Even a few hours a week of professional support can give you time to regroup, rest, or work uninterrupted. At The Arbors, our short-term stay program provides the peace of mind that your loved one is cared for in a warm, vibrant community so that you can catch your breath.
Learn more about short-term respite stays at The Arbors.
What If It’s Not Working?
Sometimes, despite your best efforts, balancing work and caregiving becomes unsustainable. If you’re exhausted, your job performance is suffering, or your loved one’s needs are becoming too complex, it may be time to look at a more supportive solution—and that is not a failure on your part.
Why Assisted Living May Be the Right Next Step
At The Arbors and The Ivy, we understand the emotional weight of this decision. Our assisted living communities offer:
- Support with activities of daily living (like dressing, bathing, and medication reminders)
- 24/7 staffing and on-call nursing care
- Personalized service plans tailored to each resident
- A lively, social environment with games, spiritual services, and outings
- Restaurant-style dining and private apartments that feel like home
And because we’re family-owned and operated, we treat your family like our own — with warmth, respect, and compassion.
Connect with us today to learn how you can benefit from respite care
The challenges of being a family caregiver while working are real, and you don’t have to carry them alone. Whether adjusting your schedule, bringing in respite care, or exploring assisted living, each step is toward a more balanced, supported life for you and your parent.
Ready to explore how The Arbors can help? Contact us today at 860.698.8613 or online to speak with a local Director who’s been part of our family for over 20 years.