How to support caregivers

Caregiving has always been important to families, friends and communities, but over the last year and a half, caregiving has escalated in its value and significance.

Studies over the years emphasize the stress caregiving can cause. It can indeed be exhausting for the caregiver—physically, emotionally and cognitively—because of a lack of time or boundaries, or the emotional toll of caring.

Since caregiving is so important to communities, there are crucial supports employers can provide.

1. Employers can support caregiving and caregivers by allowing for flexibility.

2. Innovative employers also pay attention to employee wellbeing by providing substantial benefits

3.Employers can also sponsor resource groups or affinity groups (think: parents of young children groups or caregiver dementia support groups) \

In addition to ways employers can enhance the caregiver experience, caregivers can also influence their own health and happiness by;

1.Caregivers can reduce their stress by setting boundaries or by limiting their caregiving hours

2.Caregivers can also create the conditions for happiness by building a support network for the people who need care.

3.In a cadre of caregivers, those who love cooking can deliver great meals while those who love to read can provide companionship.

Are there any other points caregivers or receivers would like to add?