[mpnagle]

I had a fantastic job while taking care of my Dad towards the end of his life. Emergencies would come up that required me to fly to him (he was in Boston in assisted living and nursing homes, I was in the Bay) and the company and my manager were so understanding about it.

I think a job where it's understood that you may have to take a day off with very little notice, or more, will go a long way to everyone's peace of mind, and I found it was possible to find that.

[saltcured]

Along these lines, there is a whole range of care options to consider. You have to do something sustainable as a caregiver, not sacrifice yourself to a death march. Paying someone to provide hands-on care, while you work, may be more sensible than losing your career and financial stability in an attempt to do it all yourself.

A board and care home can provide full time basic care, usually with monthly "rent" for the full package. Respite care is a shorter term variant for when a caregiver needs a break. These are not nursing homes because they lack staff doctors and registered nurses. They have a little economy of scale by sharing caregiving staff with several residents.

There are also hourly/daily caregivers who specialize in providing in-home care. This can get very expensive with frequent use though. There are less specialized variants for "sitters" and transportation escorts who can be a companion but don't handle as much of the patient needs.

Try to check with your hospital system or county social services, as they can probably help you bootstrap your knowledge of these topics. There also may be local support groups where other caregivers may have relevant experience and tips to share, as well as camaraderie.

[dumy55]

My employer is supportive too, I was able to take long leave and also last minute days-offs. I will think though this and thanks!

[comprev]

It also shows compassion at a difficult time and something you're unlikely to forget.

Prior to the need you might be already planning the next job move. Now you might be planning the next decade at the same employer because of how they treated you.