4 Ways To Balance Caregiving And Running A Business

Caring for an aging loved one is challenging by itself. But when you add in the time requirements of owning and operating a business, those challenges are only multiplied. As a business owner, I’ve traveled this path with three loved ones already and am now helping a fourth. I discovered what many in my position have: it’s tough but rewarding. Caring for those who raised me and cared for me is the right and honorable thing to do.

But as I said, it’s a difficult road. It’s given me an even deeper appreciation of at-home care and an even deeper understanding of the struggles faced by an adult child juggling home, family and work. If you’re seeking balance between the needs of your business and the needs of your aging parent, here are some of my personal lessons learned.

1) Schedule Quality Time

Make time to spend with your aging loved one on a regular basis outside of routine care. Whether that’s every day or every few days, put that time in your schedule to enjoy being together. It goes a long way to making them feel valuable and helping you be in touch with how they’re doing.

Communicate this schedule with your core team of employees so they know what to expect. This will help establish this time as a priority and may be extended to establish a culture of care in your business.

2) Don’t Do It Alone

You don’t have to go it alone. Find help through other family members if they live nearby or reach out to available caregiving services. This way, if your business has an emergency that demands your attention, you have help available that can augment your care. In addition, this will help lessen the burden you may feel, giving you time for self-care and giving your family time to spend with your aging loved one.

3) Show Your Love

When was the last time you sat down and really talked with your aging loved one? Communicate openly and often with them so they know how much you enjoy being with them. Don’t let them think they are a burden to you. Talk about the future so you know their preferences for care in their home or other settings. This will make them feel honored, cared for and heard, and it will take away some fears about days to come.

4) Keep Everyone on the Same Page

Whether it’s your spouse, your siblings or extended family, prioritize communication with everyone, and make updates often. If you are the primary caregiver, you need to keep everyone in the loop about your parent’s condition, strengths and weaknesses. Be sure to include those who are far away, not just those who live locally.

If you’re the type of person who owns and operates a business, chances are that you’re also the kind who wants to do everything yourself. But that is not a recipe for success when it comes to balancing your business and caring for an aging loved one. Look for balance in your life with these methods, and you’ll be able to take greater joy in this time.