Abstract:

An ageing population, extended longevity, & increasing participation of women in the workforce have stimulated concern about employees with dependent family members. In response to the needs of such employed caregivers, employers have developed a battery of policies & programs, including flexible work schedules & information services. Despite these developments, few employers recognize the potential effects of caregiving on absenteeism, productivity, & turnover. To address this problem, government is considering mandating employee benefits, which would, in some cases, allow employees leave time to care for dependent family members. Expanding community services to address the needs of the elderly & their caregivers is advocated as a strategy to unburden employed caregivers.