Getting support as a caregiver

Being a caregiver can be challenging and stressful, especially when you add up other responsibilities at home and work.

The good news is that there are ways to face those challenges in a healthy and productive way. A good first step is to learn about support that is available to you through work, the government and your community.

Support at work

• Your manager. Consider talking with your manager about your situation. Learn if there is any flexibility with your schedule, such as having a longer lunch break so you can check in on a parent. Other options might be working part-time, flex time, telecommuting, or job sharing, when you share the duties of one full-time job.
• Human Resources. Check with your HR department. You or your loved one may be able to set aside pre-tax dollars to help with your caregiving needs. You might also get discounts on certain caregiving resources.
• An employee assistance program (EAP). Your employer may have an EAP that lets you talk to mental health professionals anytime for free. They can help you manage stress, find support for anxiety and depression, and locate eldercare and community resources.

Support through government programs

• Family Medical Leave Act (FMLA). FMLA is a federal law that allows employees to take leave to take care of an immediate family member who has a serious health condition. You must qualify. FMLA leave is unpaid, so you’ll want to think about your finances early in the process. Learn more about FMLA Opens in a new window.
• Medicare/Medicaid/VA programs. There are many different types of assistance available through these government agencies. Programs may differ from state to state, and even from county to county.

Get started with these links:

• VA Caregiver Support Program Opens in a new window
• Eldercare Locator Opens in a new window
• Family Caregiver Alliance (FGA) Opens in a new window
• Caregiving Resource Center Opens in a new window

Support in the community

• Respite and support services. Respite services provide relief for the caregiver. These can include in-home care and adult day care. Cleaning, transportation, and meal services can also help make caregiving more manageable.
• Support groups. It can be helpful to be around others who are facing the same challenges. Just by sharing your story, you can reduce your level of stress. It can also be a good chance to meet new people and to learn from their experiences. Look for a support group led by a behavioral health professional with a background in caregiver concerns.

Remember self-care, too

Now, more than ever, it’s important to take care of yourself. Try your best to get enough sleep, eat well, and be active. When you are well, the person you care for benefits too.

Sources:

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Supporting Caregivers Opens in a new window. November 22, 2021.

Family Caregiver Alliance. Work and Eldercare Opens in a new window. April 2020.

FamilyDoctor.org. Balancing Work and Caregiving Opens in a new window. May 2023.

Last updated: May 13, 2024

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