Tell Us: Has Caregiving Cost You Your Job?

Denise

Tell Us: Has Caregiving Cost You Your Job?

Denise
fired-mdOn Saturday's episode of Your Caregiving Journey, Bob shared his caregiving story, which includes losing a job because of his caregiving responsibilities for his wife.

On Friday, during our video chat, Patti Shea, who cares for her parents, shared the story of a friend terrified to disclose her caregiving responsibilities to her employer for fear of being fired.

Trying to keep a job and keep caregiving affects your today and your tomorrows. Americans who provide care for their aging parents lose an estimated three trillion dollars in wages, pension and Social Security benefits when they take time off to do so, according to “The MetLife Study of Caregiving Costs to Working Caregivers: Double Jeopardy for Baby Boomers Caring for Their Parents.” You are needed today and yet you need to prepare for your own future. It's a tough spot to be in--because you're trying to be in two spots at the same time.

So, I'd love to know: Has caregiving cost you your job? Please vote in our poll, below, and share your experiences in our comments section.




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LisaD

The last job I had was a year ago, it was supposed to be a part-time job but it quickly turned into a full-time job. I decided to quit because it was interfering with me helping my family.

Casandra Porter

I didn't get fired but I came close many times. I had to be very diligent in keeping up with policies, time off requests, and other issues. Eventually, and sadly, shortly after getting everything straightened out with my attendance and being in the clear for not having any blemishes on my record because of the absences, we made the decision to move his care and I had to quit my job. It was definitely an upsetting time for me. I wasn't so in love with the job I felt like finding another one would ruin me... LOL But, I did like the job, a lot, and loved that I was finally able to learn to navigate my options within the company. Now, I can't even look for a part-time job because my job is 24/7 with Marc's care. The help I thought I would have is non-existent again. Not an entirely dire situation but definitely makes things harder.