Being a family caregiver is often an incredible financial drain. Many caregivers find that they need to cut down on their hours at work or even give up their jobs altogether so they can support their family member.
The problem is a difficult one, especially as family caregivers are often unpaid. One solution is to become a paid caregiver, which we’ve written a guide about previously (you can check it out here).
But, this won’t always be a viable option. While family members can be paid to look after their loved ones, you might find that you’re not eligible or that the income isn’t enough.
Working from home is an alternative, one that can sometimes be a perfect fit. Of course, there are some limitations to the idea too.
The Advantages of Working from Home
The biggest benefit of working from home is the concept. You’re able to be with your loved one and ensure that they’re safe, while still earning a living.
Working from home often means that you’re basically working for yourself. As a result, you have more flexibility. You can choose when you work based on what is needed and when.
The Disadvantages
The first disadvantage is that you’re trying to do two things at once – work and care for your family member. That’s never an easy task.
- It may be difficult to get your work done, especially if you’re interrupted often.
- Concentrating in the home environment isn’t as simple as it sounds – especially as there will always be things that need doing.
- Hitting deadlines might be unrealistic. After all, you have little control over the tasks involved in caregiving.
- Caring for someone else is exhausting. Trying to work as well just adds to the pressure. There may be other things you need to do too, like keeping the house clean and tidy.
Finding work is also a challenge. There are legitimate jobs out there, but there are plenty of scams too.
Even if you find good opportunities, the competition may be tough. Your income may not be that high at the beginning either. It can take years to build something that earns you
One other disadvantage is the work-home balance. This can be difficult to get right.
- Some people find that they get distracted far too much at home to work well.
- Others find the reverse, where they find it difficult to unplug from work and end up with little time for themselves.
- The latter is particularly risky, as many caregivers struggle with self-care
to begin with.
Is it Viable?
The most important consideration is your caregiving situation.
Working from home can be a good fit if you need to be present to keep your family member safe, but your hands-on role isn’t dramatic. For example, you might be responsible for preparing food and helping your family member shower, but they are still able to do most things for themselves.
This type of situation means that you have enough reliable time that you can work effectively.
A second consideration is your personality.
Are you able to manage time effectively? Could you push yourself to work even when there aren’t strict deadlines? At the same time, will you be able to take breaks when you need to?
Finding Work
If working from home seems realistic, the next step is actually finding work. This is the tricky part, as the demand is high.
One option is to see whether a regular job can be done from home, even just partly. Employers are growing more flexible, which helps. If some of the tasks of your regular job could be done remotely, why not talk to your boss about the option? They might be open to the idea or may be able to help you figure out other possible solutions.
You could also keep an eye out in job listings for positions that are remote or have that potential. Even if the role isn’t advertised as such, you could always talk about the possibility in an interview. Employers may be sympathetic if you explain why you’re interested in working remotely.
If a conventional job isn’t viable, you could also make money online directly.
Many people do this through freelancing, where they’re promoting their skills. For example, freelance writers and graphic designers are common. Sites like Upwork or Freelancer help to match freelancers with people who need the services.
You can also advertise locally using Craigslist, local newspapers and bulletin boards.
I’m a freelancer myself, focusing on writing and website design, so the field is familiar to me. However, it does take quite some time to get established and develop a reputation. In early days you’re often earning very little for your time.
As a general rule, I’d say that you shouldn’t expect freelancing to replace full-time work in the short-term. But, if you have marketable skills and spare time, it’s a good route to pursue.
There are other ways to earn online too, including affiliate marketing and blogging. If you follow these approaches, be very aware of claims versus reality.
- Look for sites that focus on realistic training, rather than ones that are filled with hype.
- Be wary about spending money. If you want a website, you will need to pay for hosting and a domain name. But, most other programs aren’t essential, especially not at the beginning.
- Be realistic about your potential. Earning income online is viable but the process takes time. Don’t assume that you are going to create a website that earns tons of money overnight. That won’t happen.
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