Caregiving is good for you, and other stories.
Researchers swear it is. Do employers agree?
Last summer, I came across a story in Harvard Business Review about how caregiver employees bring benefits to their employers. The article has been open in my tabs ever since. It’s an interesting perspective, and I am not sure that it will convince employers. I’ve done a lot of work on caregiving burdens (Business Insider) and on age discrimination (coming soon), and it’s clear that not all employers are addressing the current shortage of skilled workers by looking at older people with caregiving experience. Nevertheless, the Harvard article has some insights that might help people craft cover letters and discuss resume gaps due to caregiving experiences in job interviews.
I’ve come across other articles and a podcast about caregiving issues, including benefits, that might help you if you are dealing with this right now:
Advice for employers and family caregivers (AARP): The AARP has recommendations for how and why employers should support their caregiving employees. The resources given may help you discuss your situation with your boss.
The Health Benefits of Caregiving (Johns Hopkins Medicine): Research at Johns Hopkins found that caregivers experience health benefits, possibly because they are active, engaged, and on top of medical advice.
The Quiet Rage of Caregivers (New York Times gift link): Despite the Rutgers survey on the benefits of caregiving, many caregivers aren’t happy. They are often angry at their situation and the lack of support for them.
The Burdens and Benefits of Caregiving (Gerontologist via National Library of Medicine: This is an academic paper that looks at how the mix of burdens and benefits shape the family caregiver’s experience.
“Carefluencers” Are Helping Older Loved Ones, and Posting About It (New York Times gift link): Some caregivers are sharing their experiences, which helps to normalize dealing with aging in a culture that fights it. And maybe it becomes a side hustle?
Twenty-Four Seven (NPR): This is a podcast about the adventures and challenges of providing care to older relatives.
Do you have any good resources? Please share in the comments!