According to a 2023 report by the National Alliance for Caregiving, 53 million Americans are unpaid family caregivers, making up over 21% of the U.S. adult population. Many of these caregivers juggle at-home responsibilities with full-time jobs, meaning they never truly “clock out,” even once their work shifts have ended.
This around-the-clock workload greatly affects caregivers’ productivity, mental health, and relationships. Despite the high number of caregivers across the country who experience these adverse effects, many struggle to find the support they need, often fearing that asking for help might make them seem like a failure. However, stress reduction programs in the workplace, such as employee assistance programs, can provide the necessary support. The opposite couldn’t be more true.
The Role of Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs)
Most major employers recognize the burden placed on family caregivers, as over 80% of companies with more than 1,000 employees offer Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs), according to the International Employee Assistance Professionals Association (EAPA). These programs provide:
•Caregiving provider referrals
•Flexible working hours
•Remote work options
•Support groups and networks
•Child/elder care subsidies
•Caregiving seminars
•Paid time off
•On-site childcare
•Maternity/paternity leave
Not only do these services alleviate at-work stress, but they also free up more time for employees once they get back home. According to SYNERGY HomeCare’s Ultimate Guide to Caregiving, some of the simplest tasks like running errands, cooking family meals, and even doing laundry can become overwhelming when compounded with other everyday responsibilities. Fortunately, many of these responsibilities can be addressed by the support services available through employee assistance programs.
Care Mapping: Identify Where You Need Help
To make the most of EAPs, SYNERGY HomeCare suggests “care mapping.” This involves categorizing daily tasks into “buckets”—work, home, caregiving and self-care. Identifying the most stressful areas helps caregivers pinpoint where they need support, guiding their discussions with employers about specific EAP services.
Explore Employer-Sponsored Support During Open Enrollment
Many companies offer employees the opportunity to “shop” their healthcare benefits and select programs that best fit their needs in a period known as open enrollment. Open enrollment is the perfect time to fully explore what EAP services would address your needs as a caregiver.
While many in-house offerings normally include health, dental, and retirement saving options, do your due diligence to find other local resources that may be worth tapping into. Beyond workplace offerings, local resources like Meals on Wheels, transportation services, and in-home care programs can provide additional support. These stress reduction programs in the workplace can often be integrated into employee assistance programs (EAPs) if discussed with employers.
For more resources, AARP and the Northeast Business Group on Health offer a digital support guide with valuable information that you can access anywhere.
Remember, caregiving is challenging, and it’s okay to ask for help. Whether you talk with your local SYNERGY HomeCare provider, or chat with your employer about available support options, communication is key and can make you feel better as a caregiver and as a person.
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SYNERGY HomeCare offers no obligation home assessments. Find a location near you or contact us to learn how we can provide additional support to you and your loved ones.
