Can I resign from work to take care of my elderly mother?

You might want to consider taking a leave of absence instead of resigning. Talk with the human resource department where you work to look into a "Family Medical Leave". You may have to do some work with her doctor to document that your mom needs your help in order to stay safely at home, but it may be beneficial for you to have a job to go back to if things don't go as smoothly as you are planning. Good luck.

In today's economy, I'd say be thankful and hold on to any job you have as well as look for other ways to take care of your elderly mother first.

I think it's wonderful that you've considered quitting your job and taking care of your mom. What you do have to consider is your job your chance to remain in touch with yourself? I also considered quitting and taking care of my mom but I've come to realize that caregiving is a huge task and my job gives me the chance to remain in touch with myself as a person. I agree that maybe a leave of absence might be a better option.

Our moms are really special people and we've been truly blessed have them in our lives.

Check to see if Family Medical Leave (FMLA) is available from your work or state. Take a leave and see what "not working" (caregiving is work) is like. Remember that you must take care of yourself before you can take care of someone else (cliche but true). While "not working" investigate what goverrnment programs are available to your mother. In California there is In Home Support Services that will pay for some domestic, caregiving and supervisory services. Also remember that the economic climate now makes re-entering the workforce more diificult. Take your time, look at all options and scenarios, then choose what is best for BOTH you and your mom.

Wow such good answers...To me the first thing coming to mind is 'the family medical leave act' however depending on your employment situation-and the economy, I would check this out-but cautiously, as job security seems not what it use to be.

Good Luck!

Hap

LynnP0,

Marissa's profile states that she's 38, a single mom with a daughter and has been taking care of her mom since she was 20 and her income is all that there is. So if she quits her job, then there is no income for taking care of her daughter, her mother or herself.

Sometimes I fail to look at a person's profile before I respond and this was one of those times.

I left my job and moved in with Dad when he had a stroke..after being in two assisted living facilities, being home with him has worked out the best. I am not saying it isn't hard..it is the most difficult job I have ever had...but also most rewarding. I have managed to work some part time jobs here and there. If you can work from home..great..do that...and get some one in to stay with your Mom on days that you will need a break to go out and do things.. That is what I do and it works out well. Good luck to you!

Don't do it! Keep your job!

I quit my work, first i took FMLA, but then I did not return. I did not have a plan but it was the best decision i ever made. I took my mom out the nursing home and i strongly believe she was better for it. No care is better than the care you can give.

Everyone's situation is unique. Carefully consider the pro's and con's. If your spiritual, pray. Check out the FMLA options to maybe get a trial run at full time caregiver. Do what what your heart and brain know is best. Good luck.