Living well - Quality of life - Being supported in the workplace

If you are having difficulties at work, you may consider contacting a legal expert to discuss your work situation and how this impacts your current savings and future earnings and pension. Once you know about your legal and financial options, you will be in a better position to talk to your employer about your dementia diagnosis. It is a good idea to bring someone with you, like a family member or friend as a witness, when you speak with your employer because they can help to explain your symptoms. Sometimes a few small changes in the environment can make a big difference and help you at work. You may also consider cutting back on the number of hours you are working a week. By decreasing your overall responsibilities, you may be able to continue working, but a shorter week or number of hours.

If you have the resources, you may consider hiring a personal assistant to help you manage your business. You can also consider assistive technologies, such as alarm clocks, voice recorders and computers to help you remain in the workforce. For more information review the Assistive technologies information section of this website. The most important consideration, if you own your own business, it to begin the process of planning for a time when you may not be able to work. For more information on ways to begin planning, visit the Planning ahead section of this website. 

There are a number of ways your workplace can support you after a diagnosis of dementia, which include:

• Reducing the number of hours you work per week or day.
• Have a co-worker designated to provide support and assistance for you at work.
• Considering the idea of a job share with another employee to break up tasks.
• Assigning responsibilities and tasks that are manageable and not overly challenging.
• Determining a specific work schedule to help with balancing work, family and social activities.
• Accommodate your need for more frequent breaks, to regroup and clear your mind.

Source: The information above was compiled with permission from Murray Alzheimer Research and Education Program (MAREP). (2008). Tips and Strategies: A 'By Us For Us" Guide. Waterloo, Canada, University of Waterloo: MAREP.

At some point, it is likely you will make the decision to stop working. It is important when you make this decision, that you give it time and careful consideration. Try not to make any spur of the moment decisions and try to weigh all of your options. To make sure you are aware of which entitlements and benefits you have earned, it may be helpful to speak to a financial advisor or solicitor about your situation. A financial advisor can also provide you with information about any sick leave, disability benefits, insurance with a disability component and any government benefits you may be entitled too.

Source: The information above was compiled with permission from Murray Alzheimer Research and Education Program (MAREP). (2008). Tips and Strategies: A 'By Us For Us" Guide. Waterloo, Canada, University of Waterloo: MAREP.