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of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania

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    Self-care Resources

    Working Caregivers

    Approximately 60% of caregivers are also employed and work nearly 36 hours per week on average. 

    Working and Caregiving

    A majority of caregivers report experiencing some impact or change to their employment as a result of caregiving, including over half who reported leaving early, coming in late, or taking time off as a result of caregiving. As a caregiver, it is important to talk to your supervisor about your situation, as caregiving duties may force you to call out or arrive at work early. Stress, coworker resentment, and other workplace stress can be very challenging for caregivers. Many companies have benefits for employees that are caregivers. Speak to your human resources representative to discuss policies and possible resources.

    Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) 

    The federal Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) allows qualifying employees to take up to 12 weeks of unpaid leave. Employees need to have worked at their current company for at least 12 months. Also, the company must have at least 50 employees. FMLA provides for up to 12 weeks of leave during a 12-month period, and employees do not have to take them all at once. FMLA allows unpaid leave for several reasons. You can take time off to care for a newborn or newly adopted child. You can also take leave if you have a serious health condition that affects your job performance.

    FMLA allows employees to take time off to care for sick family members. Specifically, qualifying employees may take leave to care for a seriously ill spouse, son, daughter, or parent. However, FMLA does not cover all caregiver relationships. Aunts, uncles, cousins, and siblings are usually not covered by FMLA. This means caregivers can’t take unpaid leave to support the person they are caring for during serious health problems.

    To utilize FMLA leave, you must first notify your employer. Once you request leave, your employer must notify you if you are eligible within five business days.

    Paid Leave

    While it is not required under state law in Pennsylvania, some employers may offer paid leave to care for seriously ill family members. Review your employer’s policies to see if these options are available for you.

    Download the Working Caregiver Resource Guide.

    Caregiver Video Library

    A collection of videos that provide guidance for different caregiving tasks. While some videos are made for professional caregivers, most of the information applies to all caregivers.

    Visit the Video Library

    Printable Resources

    Worksheets and resource guides to help you stay organized in your caregiving role.

    Go to Printable Resources