Caring for a patient with bone marrow failure disease presents many challenges. Add to that the need for work and career whilebeing a caregiver, and you have quite the juggling act going on.
According to AARP, an estimated 25.5 million Americans face challenges of caring for a family member who is ill, while also getting to that important meeting or finishing a work project every day. The National Caregivers Library notes at least six out of ten employed caregivers reported they had to make some work-related adjustments as a result of their caregiving responsibilities. This includes taking time off from work, reducing work hours, taking early retirement or possibly leaving the workforce.
Though it may be a necessity, working while caregiving, can cause you to become distracted and drain you emotionally and physically. Some companies have programs to help caregivers find community services, counseling, respite care, legal and financial assistance, and caregiver support groups. Others have begun offering caregiving leave and flexible work arrangements. However, some employees are left on their own figuring out how to make it all work,. These tips from AARP and other resources can help you handle the juggling act of caring for a bone marrow failure disease patient while working:
Learn about company policies. Talk to your human resources department or read your employee handbook to ascertain your company's policy regarding caregiving. Find out about any benefits your company may offer, such as an employee assistance program.
Know your rights. The Family and Medical Leave Act, which President Clinton signed in 1993, helps caregivers balance caregiving and employment responsibilities. The FMLA provides eligible employees with up to 12 weeks of unpaid, joband health benefits–protected leave each year. Ask your human resources department for information about the Family and Medical Leave Act. Have them send a copy to your supervisor as well, if appropriate.
Talk to your employer/supervisor. Be upfront about your role as a caregiver and the demands that it puts on you. It is better that she or he hear from you why you're arriving late for work or seem preoccupied. Spell out the concrete steps you can take to juggle your competing demands. For instance, say, "I just found out my mother needs weekly blood work on Wednesday afternoons. While I'm looking for other arrangements, I propose that I work late on Tuesdays." Chances are your company will reward your honesty and sense of responsibility toward both your family and your job.
Inquire about flextime. Even if no formal policies exist, you should ask your employer if he or she would consider an arrangement to help you accommodate your caregiving responsibilities. For instance, you might ask if you could work from home a day or two a week. You could inquire about a part-time job or job-sharing arrangement.
Don't abuse work time. Whenever possible, avoid taking care of caregiving chores when you should be working. If you have to make phone calls or search the Internet for information related to your loved one's needs, do it on your lunch break.
Stay organized. Do your best to manage your time efficiently. Use to-do lists and calendar reminders. Set priorities, then tackle the most important items first. Delegate at work and at home.
Seek help. Ask others to help. Family and friends want to be there for you and the patient.
Say thanks. Show your appreciation for co-workers and colleagues who pitch in and help you out with your job. Agree to take on extra work when the dust settles, and be willing to help someone else who is suddenly thrust into a situation you may know all too well