7 Alternatives for Quitting a Job to Take Care of an Elderly Parent
Are you thinking about quitting your job to take care of your parents? What should you do? Balancing your work and elderly parents’ caregiving duties is not an easy task because of how you may need to take time off from work to fulfill their needs. Therefore, you might think of quitting your job. However, do you think this is reasonable? Read more to find out.
Benefits and Consequences of Quitting a Job
The benefits of quitting a job are:
- You do not need to worry about the quality of care they receive
- You can save the cost you spend on an in-home caregiver or adult daycare
- You can know their condition better and maintain a close relationship with them
While enjoying these benefits, you cannot ignore the downside of quitting a job, which is the loss of monthly income. If you leave your job temporarily, you can manage the situation with your savings. However, if your elderly parent needs assistance for many years or the rest of their life, leaving your job may severely impact your financial situation. Your skills may also be affected in case you have left your job for a longer period. Thus, you need to assess your situation along with your elderly parent’s caregiver needs before deciding to quit your job.
Feasible Alternatives to Quitting a Job
You can take care of your elderly parents without quitting your job by considering any of the following alternatives:
#1 Ask for a Flexible Work Schedule
You can check with your employer or company whether they can offer a flexible work schedule. This will include changing your working hours or working from home a few days a week and more. This will help you take care of both your parents while completing your office work.
#2 Know the FMLA Eligibility
The Federal Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA), passed in 1993, supports eligible working people caring for their ailed parents by providing 12 workweeks of unpaid leave and job protection. You can speak to your HR manager or supervisor about this act and how it helps you achieve a work-life balance. To be eligible for FMLA, you must work for a government agency or elementary/secondary school with 50 employees for at least 12 months before taking off.
#3 Check-in on Your Loved Ones Frequently
Make sure to call or visit your parents often to check in on their health conditions and socialize with them. Spending some quality time with them will help eliminate their loneliness while improving their mental health.
#4 Consider Adult Day Care Program
You can rely on adult daycare programs that offer a protective environment for your elderly parents while providing benefits, such as meals, supervision, and socialization.
#5 Request for Part-Time Job
You can explain your situation to your supervisor or HR manager and request them to allow you to work part-time for some days. Even working 30 hours instead of 40 hours a week can significantly lighten your load.
#6 Hire an In-Home Caregiver
An in-home caregiver will ensure your parents’ caregiving needs are met while helping them age in place. While assisting your parents with personal care, companion care, and transportation, caregivers will constantly supervise them to prevent accidental falls and injuries, ensuring their safety and well-being.
Caregivers will cater to a range of client needs, from those who require care for a few hours a day to those who require constant supervision. Your elderly parents can enjoy greater independence and improved health and quality of life with in-home caregivers.
If you are looking for personalized yet affordable in-home elderly care services , contact us today at Home Care Partner. Our trained caregivers provide unparalleled attention and assistance to your loved ones, so you can work with peace of mind knowing that your parents are in safe hands.