Balancing Work and Caregiving

Are you carrying two full-time jobs?

Business Insider reports that a growing number of American workers are trying to balance the responsibility of paid employment and unpaid caregiving. They’re caring for aging parents and young children, while often trying to hold down a job, manage a household, and take care of themselves all at the same time. 1 in 4 American adults belongs to the sandwich generation and represents nearly a fourth of today’s workforce. That number’s projected to increase greatly in the years to come. One report reveals that a majority of employees are stressed out trying to balance work and caregiving. The demand is time-consuming, takes a toll on health, and causes financial strain.

Two-thirds of the sandwich generation caregivers have reduced their hours or gone to part-time work. They’re making sacrifices in their careers while facing the rising costs of care. While income drops, long-term savings dwindle. The strain spills over into the workplace through lost productivity, a greater number of absences, and high turnover. Employers have the opportunity to help these families by being flexible and showing grace. Rather than training new employees, they can protect those who are diligently trying to do their best under tough circumstances. We should all strive to practice Paul’s instruction in Colossians 3:12. “Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.”

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