How many of your groups have benefits to help employees who suddenly find themselves the caregiver of an aging loved one? 

Over 40 million Americans live this reality every day. Recently, I got a first-hand taste of all the questions and needs that arise when thrust into my own family health situation. At a minimum, an employee has to look to their employer for a little time off. What if employers could offer even more? 

Today, I’m sharing 3 reasons support for caregivers should be addressed in the benefits package… 

1. It’s a growing concern

Maybe you’re wondering how big of need there really is. Consider these stats…

• 25% of the 40 million Americans caring for loved ones today are millennials 
• By 2025, millennials will represent a whopping 75% of the workforce 
• “Mature Millennials” are in their mid-30’s, already taking on leadership and management roles

As we consider that younger generations are caring for children AND aging loved ones at the same time, the potential impact in any workplace is significant. 

2. It’s stressful

Whether it’s a sudden, unexpected situation or a long-term need that requires ongoing navigation, making decisions and providing care for a loved one is stressful. 

I’d never even thought about being a caregiver until my dad pulled my brother and me aside at a family gathering to tell us doctors had found a mass in his bladder. He’d already planned surgery the following week and wanted us to make plans in case he couldn’t take care of himself afterwards. At that moment, all three of us realized we weren’t prepared and needed help. 

freshbenies had just launched a new service called Caregiver Support for our team. I had access to a dedicated Healthcare Coach to guide us through every aspect of providing care. My coach helped us…

• do research
• review medical and legal documents
• create a care plan
• collaborate as a family with healthcare professionals via a secure portal

My family was able to delegate tasks, coordinate getting daddy to follow-up appointments, and view all important documents in the portal. This was a huge help since we all live several hours away from each other. Without this service, I can’t imagine how we would’ve figured things out.

3. It’s expensive 

Providing care for a loved one is a financial burden for many. A recent study by AARP shows 3 of 4 caregivers spend $7,000 on out of pocket costs each year. Beyond the financial burden, employees often use vacation and sick days to research, coordinate, and provide care. 

The Caregiver Support service gives employees unlimited access to their Healthcare Coach with no additional fees. This expert support often results in not only better care decisions, but also less costly ones.

My family was lucky. My dad’s mass was removed without complications. It did turn out to be cancerous, but it hadn’t spread. He’ll complete his weekly treatments soon. At this point, it seems he should be able to care for himself at home. 

We were also lucky because my employer offered me more than some time off. We received great advice and were prepared for the best, worst or anything in between. This gave us peace of mind, knowing we had a home care plan in place if we needed it. We also saved a LOT of time not having to do all the research and make all of the phone calls to arrange for care.  

What benefits do you recommend that help employers and their employees with this growing need? Comment below or email me at adam@freshbenies.com.