Most adult children do what they can to help elderly parents as they age and need more assistance. It’s usually just an instinct to be there for them after all those years that they were there for you. But, as they continue to age and their health deteriorates, you might feel that you are needed more and more. Do you quit your job to become a caregiver?
Before you make the decision, there are a few things you should consider that a lot of people overlook. Most of these will be crucial factors in achieving a work-life balance as a caregiver, and even after your duties are complete. So, make sure you address all of these questions and are comfortable before you make the leap into full-time caregiving.
5 Things to Consider Before you Quit your Job to Become a Caregiver
Many people focus on the financial side when they are deciding whether or not to leave their job, but there is much more at stake than a paycheck.
1. Paycheck and Benefits
While finances aren’t the only factor, a paycheck and benefits certainly are important. You won’t have a consistent income, so can you afford to quit your job? You might be thinking that you can survive for a little while without your income, but you also need to think about the future. Here are a few questions to address:
- Do you have debt?
- Are you willing to miss out on Social Security benefits for the future?
- Do you currently have a retirement package? Will you have a plan if you quit your job to become a caregiver?
- How will you pay for insurance?
- Are you close to retiring?
- What will your financial situation be when your caregiving duties are complete?
2. Caregiving Time Frame
Do you know how long your parent will need care? If your senior has been diagnosed with a terminal condition or Alzheimer’s disease, your time frame for caregiving may be shorter than for an older adult that’s just going through the motions of aging. You’ll have to plan out your current financial situation according to the time frame you’re expecting to be a caregiver and also consider how long you can put your career on hold.
3. Re-entering the Workforce
It’s easy to leave the workforce, but it’s quite difficult to get back in. It’s much harder to get a new job if you’re employed compared to unemployed. Also, consider how old you will be when you think you’ll be able to go back to work. Although it’s illegal to discriminate against age, employers can find other reasons not to hire you. For example, if you’ve been out of the workforce for a while, your skills could be out of date.
4. Workplace Accommodations
Instead of quitting your job, you can talk with your employer and see if they have any accommodations that might make it easier to work and be a caregiver. Maybe you could work part-time or work from home a few days per week so you can still be with your loved one. Some companies might even offer paid leave to care for an elderly parent. Unemployment is also an option, so you can see if you qualify to collect while you’re caregiving. Make sure you know all of your options before you make a decision.
5. Your Health
You’re probably only thinking about your senior’s health at this point, but it’s important to think of your own too. Caregiving really takes a toll on the body, both mentally and physically. Before you quit your job to become a caregiver, consider how it might impact your health. Also, think about how your health can affect your caregiving duties and ultimately affect your loved one. If you do decide to care for your parent, be sure that you are familiar with the signs and symptoms of caregiver burnout and take proper action.
