Published November 2020
From juggling work responsibilities remotely to homeschooling children, adjusting to the new normal that COVID-19 has created is difficult for everyone. However, some have added yet another role to their resume: caregiver. Here are some scenarios your employees may find themselves in, as well as tips on how you can best support them during this trying time and going forward.
Caring for elderly relatives
According to the National Alliance for Caregiving, 65.7 million Americans serve as caregivers for family members—and nearly two-thirds are simultaneously employed full- or part-time. Balancing everyday responsibilities and care for elderly relatives is compounded by the fear of exposing those loved ones to the outside world through trips to the grocery store or pharmacy.
Taking care of kids and spouses
During this time, many continue to serve as caregivers for a child or a spouse with a chronic illness or disability, but without the resources we’ve come to rely on, such as doctor visits, daycare facilities, and school. Even parenting without added challenges can be burdensome right now, and with these mounting duties, parents often forget they need to care for themselves as well.
Working on the front lines
For households with essential workers, the concern of bringing the virus home is even greater. Whether they’re medical professionals, or working in the restaurant, grocery, or shipping industries, these individuals are not only risking their own health and safety, but that of their families too.
How employers can lay the groundwork for support
By sharing important COVID-19 information regularly, particularly news relevant to caregivers, you can help your employees stay up to date with the latest guidelines. Employers should keep their workforce informed about company policies and benefit offerings that may help caregivers, such as flexible hours, insurance assistance, and more. Finally, employers can also encourage and model self-care, providing links to webinars and other wellness resources, as well as participating themselves.
If you or your employees are experiencing the challenges of being a caregiver during COVID-19, it’s important to have all the health insurance resources you need. Visit our Guide for Brokers and Employers for the latest answers and support.
To confirm eligibility for any programs or services mentioned in this article as it relates to your specific health plan, please reach out to your account executive or HR benefits team. You may also speak to our member services team at (888)-333-4742 or by sending a secure email. And for plan details and other member resources, log in to the member portal.