At.the moment, I work at a county hospital. I’m fortunate in that I work 4 days, 10 hours a day. I will be 67 in 4 years abd I will be eligible for PERS (public employees retired) and some social security (depending in the windfall elimination act).
My issue is that my 83 year old dad has dementia and my husband is in a wheelchair. We love about 2 miles away from mom (whose also getting forgetful and uses a walker). Right now, I can just about get everyones shopping, laundry etc. Done. But in a few months, we’re going back to 8 hour shifts. Of course there’s no time for me in there. I can get my PERS & social security, both with penalties, but I don’t know what else to do. I have to have at least 3 days off. Any ideas?
Wow, you must be exhausted! Do you have anyone holding you up? Hopefully your husband is a bit of a cheerleader, keeping you going.
I suggest you talk to your employer about staying on 4 days as you are now, or 6 hours a day when everyone else goes back to 8. Also look into how much Social Security and PERS you’d get if you retired now to see if you could live with that.
Are there any community resources such as Meals On Wheels or Office on Aging that could help?
Good luck to you!
Hi Lisa. My husband is my backbone, but unfortunately he’s got an amputated leg and can’t drive. I’m the only kid here. I’m also a Medical social worker, so I’m aware of the resources and my parents are over income for about 95% of any free or low-cost help. My dad, although demented, does not want to spend his money on services and I can’t afford to pay out of my pocket. I know my social security is much lower now than if I waited. I’m not sure I can afford to retire.
Thanks for your feedback. I do appreciate it. 
Sharon