Gotta Work, But Dad Needs Me!

Culpeper Chamber of Commerce

Culpeper Star Exponent

January 12, 2015

Debbie Stohlman, President/CEO

debbies@culpeperchamber.com

Hurricane Katrina devastated my hometown of New Orleans, Louisiana on Monday, August 29, 2005.  My late father-in-law, Morris Stohlman, who was 91 years old at the time, lost everything--except his life--on that fateful day.  With that opening, you may be thinking that this week's column will be somber...but it isn't!  Katrina actually led to one of the most rewarding experiences of my life - my husband and I become his caregivers.

Christiane Miller, Executive Director of Aging Together, spoke at the Culpeper Chamber of Commerce Legislative Breakfast.  She stated, “80% of the care of older adults and people with disabilities is provided by family members.  That’s the equivalent of approximately six billion dollars in services annually.  Nearly 44 million unpaid caregivers provide assistance to older adults.  Three quarters of them are in the workforce.   For business, the costs of employees with caregiving responsibilities are extensive. The consequences include employee absenteeism and presenteeism (present on the job but not performing up to par), arriving late, leaving early, taking a leave of absence, choosing early retirement, turning down promotions, or taking a less demanding job.  Additionally, workers who are family caregivers have more health problems than non-caregivers, significantly increasing the price tag.  Across the United States more and more businesses are recognizing what’s going on with their employees who are family caregivers.  And they are taking steps to support them.  In part because it’s a good thing to do.  And in part because it’s good business. Research shows that providing support, ranging from simple information and referral to more substantial options, such as counseling, respite care, education and training for caregivers, can reduce the negative health and work-related effects of caregiving and improve overall employee productivity.”

If you are an employer, chances are you may have someone on your staff who is a family caregiver.  Since these situations are often complex, there may be new and/or specialized personnel support programs available. Aging Together is hosting a casual breakfast gathering on Thursday, January 22nd, 8am at Culpeper Cheese Company on E. Davis Street to present information to businesses about programs and services available to family caregivers. Quoting Chris Miller, 'Aging Together has always maintained that a community that plans for the needs of its older citizens ultimately benefits people of all ages.  This holds true for businesses supporting employee caregivers as well.  The policies and resources that benefit them will also boost productivity and reduce turnover among employees with everyday stresses and chronic illnesses', says Ms. Miller. 

I believe Ms. Miller's thoughts are spot on. My husband and I were both very fortunate to have understanding and supportive employers during our caregiving days.  It afforded us the needed flexibility to balance work/life while delivering the best possible care to my father-in-law.

I personally invite you to attend this informative program.  Call our office at 540.825.8628 or email me at debbies@culpeperchamber.com if you plan to attend.