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As someone helping another adult with a chronic or acute health condition, you may notice needing more time away from work, hobbies, or putting off your own health care to have enough time to manage your additional caregiver role.
Studies from the Roslyn Carter Institute for Caregivers echo this effect, estimating 1 in 5 employees are also serving as a family caregiver for someone who is aging, ill, or disabled and 60% of caregivers report experiencing related work disruptions. Additionally, 1 in 3 employees have left their job because of their caregiver role. The growing number of family caregivers has both employers and individuals feeling the strain from the cost of caregiving
Connecting with support resources early may help you maintain employment, reduce feelings of isolation and stress, and help maintain or improve your overall health. An article from WebMD HERE offers ideas for talking with your employer about your situation and employer options that may help you balance caregiving and work.
Also, free support may be available from an Employee Assistance Program (EAP) through your employer’s human resources department or via the employer of someone in your related household. Business.com provides and overview article HERE about EAPs, along with information for businesses about offering an EAP. Additionally, there may be caregiver benefits through your health insurance. You may call or visit the website of your insurance company or check with your human resources department to find out if benefits are available.
Locally, you may also contact Kitsap County Senior Information and Assistance to learn more about free, local caregiver support options. Aging & Disability Resource Network can be reached Mon-Fri. 8:00am-4:30pm at (360) 337-5700, (800) 561-6418, or Email: seniorinfo@kitsap.gov. There is no charge, and no eligibility criteria to meet for talking with them to learn about your options.
Local Resources
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