How the COVID Workplace Benefited Family Caregivers

While COVID was a huge pain for many folks, there were a few perks for caregivers. Many workplaces started offering benefits to their employees that made caregiving tasks easier. As things begin to return to “normal”, many are hoping these changes can remain in place in order to make their lives easier and their caregiving responsibilities more attainable. And as it turns out, changes that benefit caregivers, may benefit the economy as well.

Employer benefits to caregivers can include things such as:

• Flexible hours
• Work from home options
• Paid time off and family medical leave
• Affordable backup care
• Referrals to community sources

Having these systems in place allows working caregivers to take loved ones to appointments, pick up prescriptions and groceries, and prepare meals. They can also just be in the vicinity in case of a fall or a quick need of assistance. Affordable backup care options are great when childcare falls through and referrals to community sources can be respite care options or just an afternoon helper once a week.

A study done by AARP found that if employees were given caregiver support benefits, productivity would increase, and the U.S. gross domestic product could grow by as much as $1.7 trillion by 2030 as a result. When an employer promotes work / life balance, and puts systems in place to encourage it, that’s a win for everyone.

"If employees were given caregiver support benefits, productivity would increase, and the U.S. gross domestic product could grow by as much as $1.7 trillion by 2030 as a result."

It’s an employee’s market right now and employers are eager to provide options that make them want to stay. Turnover is expensive and training is timely. Benefits that aid caregivers are easy, inexpensive, and will retain good employees.

Caregivers know more than most how important it is to have a long term care plan in place. If you’d like to protect your retirement and your family, request a quote today to see if long term care insurance could be a part of your plan.