Are you the caregiver for someone with Parkinson’s disease or Alzheimer’s disease? Then you know that balancing your caregiving requirements with work and family obligations can be a real challenge at times.
One way to handle this issue is to find a job that allows you to telecommute/work from home. Working at home means that you will have more flexibility with your work schedule, so you can get your loved one to doctor’s appointments and attend to her needs easier.
Also, people who work at home find that they can save a considerable amount of money. They often do not need to buy as much clothes, they save a lot on gas, as well as car maintenance and repair. Telecommuters also need not worry about using sick days or vacation days to ferry their loved one to a doctor’s appointment or rehab session.
Working at home gives caregivers more flexibility.
And of course, working from home means that you can spend more quality time with your loved one.
Challenges When Working At Home
If you do work at home, remember that you must be able to set aside some time where you can be not be distracted and do your work. This can be tough when dealing with someone with dementia or Parkinson’s. You may want to ask a friend or relative to come in for a few hours each day and provide care as you get your work done.
Also, it is important to not allow caregiving challenges to distract you from doing your work, and being upbeat and positive with those with whom you work. If you have been doing things for your loved one right before work, take a deep breath and clear your mind as best you can. Or go for a quick walk if you can. This way, you can start your work in a positive frame of mind.
Popular Work At Home Jobs For Caregivers
- Freelance writer: Freelance writing has become more popular and in demand than ever before: There are many Websites that need creative, informative and unique content to drive traffic to their companies. There are many freelance websites where you can look for work, such as www.elance.com.
- Customer service: Some companies now outsource their customer service needs to freelancers. Another good strategy is to email companies directly and offer your writing services. www.arise.com is a site that specializes in call center outsourcing where you may be able to find work.
- Online tutor: If you have some experience as a teacher, you may be able to work as an online tutor. Try to find this kind of work at www.tutor.com.
- Translator: If you are fluent in a foreign language, you may be able to find work in translating documents for companies and individuals. Elance.com also has opportunities for translators and interpreters.
Helpful PD Products
If you do decide to work at home, it will be important for your loved one to be able to do more things for herself. Some useful products to increase her independence include these:
Aids in helping people with dexterity problems to dress themselves with less help.
Makes it easier for people with hand dexterity problems to put on and take off a belt on their own.
Please be sure to review some of our other product offerings to increase the independence of your loved one, and best of luck in your search for work at home.