In 2023, we began a new monthly series delving into the MIDDLE MANAGER. Previously, we discussed the challenges faced by middle managers, some key managers’ desires and potential solutions, how to explain HR to managers, and 1st-time managers often are ill-prepared for their new role. We will continue to reflect on the evolving nature of work in today’s dynamic business environment and how we can support our middle managers.
This month let’s look into how Caring for Caregivers: A Manager’s Guide to Supporting Employees in Their Caregiving Roles.
Research shows that managers often play a key role in helping employees feel supported at work. Employees are facing increased responsibility as caregivers and need support from their managers. 73% of employees have caregiving responsibilities according to a recent Harvard Business School study, The Caring Company. According to a recent AARP report, 53% of employees ages 40-49 and 36% of all workers ages 40 and older are caregivers for an adult. The caregiving trend is attributed to longer life expectancies, delayed parenthood, and limited caregiving options due to the pandemic. Caregiver employees’ jobs are impacted by having to work remotely, change or reduce work hours, use paid caregiving leave, or ultimately quit their job to provide care within the last five years. People managers can play a crucial role in supporting employees who are caregivers by implementing various strategies to help balance work and caregiving responsibilities.
Employees are facing an ever-growing responsibility as caregivers and need support from their managers. 73% of employees have caregiving responsibilities according to a recent Harvard Business School study, The Caring Company. According to a recent AARP report, 53% of employees ages 40-49 and 36% of all workers ages 40 and older are caregivers for an adult. The caregiving trend is attributed to longer life expectancies, delayed parenthood, and limited caregiving options due to the pandemic. Caregiver employees’ jobs are impacted by having to work remotely, change or reduce work hours, use paid caregiving leave, or ultimately quit their job to provide care within the last five years. People managers can play a crucial role in supporting employees who are caregivers by implementing various strategies to help balance work and caregiving responsibilities.
Employers are beginning to acknowledge the importance of supporting caregivers, and some companies are tracking caregiver status to better understand and address the needs of their workforce. Some organizations are implementing policies, such as a one-year sabbatical for caregiving, to help employees balance work and caregiving responsibilities without quitting their jobs.
The financial impact of caregiving on both employees and businesses is significant, with a MetLife study estimating a loss of $3 trillion in wages, pension contributions, and Social Security benefits for caregivers. U.S. businesses lose $35 billion annually due to the failure to attract, support, and retain workers with caregiving responsibilities according to the Harvard Business School study. Company leaders are beginning to recognize that assisting caregiver employees is imperative for attracting and retaining quality employees.
It was found that employment dropped nearly 8% for workers who became caregivers versus demographically similar non-caregivers in a 2022 study of 13,000 people by associate professor of healthcare policy at Harvard Medical School Nicole Maestas, an economist at the Social Security Administration, and economist at Wayne State University Yulya Truskinovsky.
Managers can support caregivers through five ways. They can conduct frequent one-on-one conversations, offer flexibility in job roles, and be empathetic to individual needs. Establishing caregiver networks and employee resource groups within companies can provide additional support and help organizations understand the specific needs of caregivers.
It is important that managers not make assumptions about caregivers when assigning roles or promotions and managers should be more curious and empathetic when discussing the needs of employees with caregiving responsibilities. Additionally, managers should help employees understand and access available benefits such as subsidized elder care, child care, employee assistance programs, and affinity groups for caregivers.
By implementing these supportive measures, people managers can contribute to a more inclusive and compassionate workplace, allowing employees who are caregivers to fulfill their responsibilities effectively without compromising their well-being or career progression.
HR Synergy can help you develop programs and support for your caregiving employees, so that your employees are retained!
Contact us for more information about MANAGER TRAININGS WE OFFER.
Read more from our MIDDLE MANAGERS SERIES:
The challenges faced by middle managers
Some key managers’ desires and potential solutions
1st-time managers often are ill-prepared for their new role
Caring for Caregivers: A Manager’s Guide to Supporting Employees in Their Caregiving Roles
Tips for New Managers Who Are Now Supervising Their Former Peers
Managing Difficult Employees and Disruptive Behaviors: A Comprehensive Guide for HR Professionals