Talking to your employer about being a caregiver

About 35% of people in the workforce are also caregivers, so you are not alone on the journey. However, discussing caregiving responsibilities with your employer can be a source of stress and requires clear communication. 

These are some things to consider before starting the conversation.

Be prepared: 

Assess the situation and what accommodation you will need in order to balance your responsibilities.

• Do you need time off?
• Do you need more flexibility in your schedule? (for appointments or emergencies)
• Do you need to work from home if the situation allows? 

Be prepared to explain the diagnosis and what you will be required to do while supporting the person living with dementia. Ensure you have an idea of what you will need from your employer to best balance your time and energy.   

Be transparent: 

Clearly explain that someone has been diagnosed with dementia and that you plan to be the primary caregiver. Mention how this will impact your work going forward and what division of time you plan to dedicate to caregiving.  

Offer solutions:

Where you can, try to offer solutions that would satisfy everyone involved. This could be more flexible working hours, working remotely or taking a leave of absence. 

Critically Ill Adult Leave

Unpaid leave up to 16 weeks for providing care to a critically ill adult. 

Requires written notice, with anticipated start date, duration and certificate from a medical practitioner if possible. 

Ends on the last day of the week in which the adult dies or after 16 weeks. 

Family Responsibility Leave

Intended for dealing with the health, care, or education needs of a person in a close family relationship. 

Provides up to three days of unpaid leave per year. 

Compassionate Care Leave

Allows up to 28 weeks of unpaid leave to care for a critically ill family member with a significant risk of dying.  

Requires a written note from a certified medical practitioner indicating a serious medical condition with a significant risk of death within 28 weeks. 

Government of Canada's Employment Insurance program covers Compassionate Care Leave. Employees looking for compensation can visit canada.ca. 

For information on leaves available through New Brunswick employment standards is available on gnb.ca.

• Other employment standards leaves (publication)
• Caregiver friendly workplaces
• Sharing the diagnosis with employers