Informal Caregivers Who Also Work: What to Expect from Your Employer

Estimates place the number of informal caregivers in Puerto Rico at over 440,000, of which more than half (52.2%) also work outside the home and 31.8% work in the private sector. Informal caregivers are those who take care of others—usually loved ones in need of assistance—without receiving financial compensation. While caregiving is an act of love, it is also very challenging and requires commitment. But for a little of peace of mind, below we explain what you should expect from your employer as you undertake both roles:

They know it is becoming more common

Many employers are already aware that their employees are also taking care of parents, grandparents, and other elderly relatives. Caregivers are even requesting flexible work arrangements, as shown by a recent survey, where 77% of companies in Puerto Rico have received such requests. That is to say, you are not alone if you need to ask for help or adjustments.

They will listen

It is important to have an honest conversation with your supervisor or the Human Resources Department representative in your company. Let them know about your situation and how it affects your time or energy. Supervisors are often unaware of what you are experiencing, so having a good conversation about it can lead to positive changes.

They can honor your right to flexibility

One way your employer can help is by offering flexible work options. These could include:

• Changing your current work schedule
• Considering the possibility of working remotely
• Adjusting your tasks

This would mean working differently, not less, so you can fulfill your caregiving duties as you continue doing your job in an efficient way.

They can provide time off for emergencies

Some companies provide sick leave to take care of family members. Additionally, some employers even allow workers to donate their accrued sick time or paid time off to caregiving coworkers in case of an emergency. Check with your Human Resources Department to learn more about your options.

Resources and support

There are many other forms of support available to you, such as:

Contigo Cuidador program from Triple-S Advantage: Join the Contigo Cuidador program to receive guidance on how to handle the processes and challenges you face on a daily basis. The program offers advantages such as:

• Contigo Cuidador workshops – a series of workshops providing useful tools to broaden your knowledge on patient care, technology use, legal and financial matters, managing anxiety and bereavement, self-care, and physical mobility, among others. View the calendar at cuidadores.sssadvantage.com
• Caregiver Guide – a written guide that teaches you how to make an action plan to organize your life and the patient’s life as well. It also lists the documents you will need to provide care for that person and handle their affairs, and it shows you how to work with your finances. It also includes information about certain chronic conditions, their symptoms, and how to treat patients with these conditions. Learn more and download the guide at cuidadores.sssadvantage.com
• Activities – special events are planned throughout the year for caregivers and their loved ones, where they can share their experiences and grow their support group— a must in this process. Visit the Triple-S Advantage Facebook page, give us a “like”, and watch for our posts on future activities.

These resources can make your life a bit easier.

Expect empathy, not pity

You have the right to work in an understanding and supportive place. This means that team leaders and supervisors should be trained to address situations like these with respect and sensitivity.

Still at work as an older adult

If you are caring for a loved one as an older adult (over 60 years old) yourself, keep in mind that your input never loses value. Many companies are recognizing this value in the older adults they employ.

Holding a job while being an informal caregiver is never easy, but there is support for the journey ahead. As companies in Puerto Rico are starting to notice this reality, be sure to talk, ask, and learn. You deserve a workplace where your efforts as both an employee and a caregiver are fully recognized.