In the US, there are around caregivers, providing care for their child, parent, or other relative.
Becoming a caregiver to a family member is one of the most loving things you can do, but itƵs also one of the hardest. No one prepares you for the sleepless nights, stress, guilt, or exhaustion you will face.
And all of that while working a full-time job? We applaud you.
If you're feeling like youƵre doing everything you can and still not doing enough, youƵre not alone. And there are ways to cope, set boundaries, and get the support you need.
The Unseen Burden of Being a Working Caregiver
Taking care of your loved one is a beautiful and selfless act. A great way of giving back some of the love they gave you.
And while the role comes from a place of love, many working experience:
● Burnout
● Chronic stress
● Feeling isolated or invisible
● Guilt for feeling like theyƵre not doing enough at work or at home
By taking care of yourself and your mental health, you can take better care of your senior.
Tips for Balancing Work and Caregiving Without Burning Out
You donƵt have to choose between being a good employee and a good daughter, son, or spouse. Here are a few strategies that can help:
1. DonƵt Be Scared to Set Boundaries
You are not a failure if you say no every once in a while. If youƵre feeling overwhelmed, it's time to take a small break.
Boundaries help protect your energy. Consider designating certain times of the day when youƵre recharging unless itƵs an emergency. Communicate your limits with family and your loved one in a kind and loving way.
2. Use Shared Tools and Schedules
You can use Google Calendar to plan out doctorƵs appointments, meal deliveries, or family check-ins. You can even create a care log (an organized record used to track daily care). Involve other family members, even if they live far away. It can make everything feel more manageable.
3. Talk to Your Employer
You may be surprised by the flexibility youƵll be met with if you just ask. Many workplaces have caregiver leave options, hybrid schedules, or different programs that can help. You donƵt have to disclose everything, but being honest about your situation can open the door to compassion.
Check if your company has an Employee Ƶsistance Program (EAP). It can offer different benefits, referrals, counseling, and more. You also may be eligible for paid family leave.
4. Join a Support Group
There are local and online support groups for caregivers where you can vent, ask questions, and feel heard by people who are in a similar situation. You can see if there are any groups in your hospital, medical center, church, or community centers.
Online, you can join Facebook groups or platforms like Caregiver Action Network.
5. Let Go of the Idea of Perfection
Not every meal has to be home-cooked. Not every errand will be on time. And not every day will feel successful. Accepting imperfection is a powerful act of self-love. Your presence, love, and effort matter. You can only do your best.
When Should You Consider Professional Help?
Many families wait too long to seek help. Often out of love, fear, or guilt. But support from trained caregivers can extend your parentƵs independence, not take it away.
Just a few hours of companionship each week can make a difference if theyƵre lonely and scared. Not to mention more. In-home care services can help:
● Reduce the risk of injury
● Maintain routines and dignity
● Relieve stress from family members
If you need help, thereƵs absolutely no shame in that. We canƵt do it all on our own, and sometimes the best thing we can do is let someone in.
YouƵre Doing Better Than You Think
If no oneƵs said it to you lately, what youƵre doing matters. You are showing up. You are giving love. And you are doing your very best in a difficult situation.
Support is out there and it's not a sign of weakness. ItƵs a sign that you care about doing this well, not just doing it alone.
Take a deep breath. Then take the next step. It can be a conversation, setting a boundary, creating a plan, or reaching out to other family members. You and your loved one deserve it.
