The caregiver could develop a network that includes support from both family and outside sources. Strategies for Employed Women Caregivers Families provide informal care for over 75 percent of frail older adults. Although men are assuming more caregiving responsibilities than previously, three-quarters of family caregivers are women. Thirty-one percent of women over 18 will care for both children and parents over their lifetime, which often makes it difficult to balance work and family. According to the U.S. Department of Labor, at a time when caregiving responsibilities may hit the hardest, more than half the women ages 45 to 64 work outside the home.
Caregivers often help their family member by locating, managing and offering appropriate assistance.
Typical tasks include assistance with housekeeping, finances, preparing meals, help with eating, bathing and dressing, shopping or transportation. These caregiving responsibilities can create physical, financial and emotional strain on the caregiver and her family. Some women end up in the difficult situation of providing care to both their children and elderly family members at the same time. The stresses of juggling dual caregiving roles can be overwhelming. Ask for suggestions.