Caregiving and Career Colliding: Navigating Work and Family Responsibilities

Jessica Guthrie shares her journey of providing over a decade of care for her mother, Constance, who was diagnosed with early-onset Alzheimer’s disease. Growing up, Jessica and her mother had a very close relationship, with Constance owning a hair salon where young Jessica would often help out. However, as Jessica left for college, she noticed her mother beginning to struggle with isolation and forgetfulness. This eventually led to an Alzheimer’s diagnosis when Constance was just 66 years old.

Over the next several years, Jessica balanced caring for her mother from a distance while pursuing her career, which involved frequent flights home to Virginia. She worked tirelessly to set up systems and routines to keep her mother engaged and safe at home. However, as Constance’s symptoms progressed and she started displaying concerning behaviors like wandering, Jessica made the difficult decision to move back home in 2019. Working remotely, she focused on creating new memories with her mother and learning to slow down and cherish every moment together.

By 2022, Constance required full-time care and assistance. Jessica placed her mother on home hospice care but found resources were removed prematurely. Despite this challenge, Constance stabilized in her condition, though she remains fully dependent on others. Jessica has learned invaluable lessons about caregiving through her experiences and shares her wisdom to help others navigate similar situations.

About Jessica:

Jessica C. Guthrie is a visionary leader dedicated to reshaping the landscape of caregiving. With over ten years of caregiving experience, she champions the cause of providing dignified, respectful, and compassionate care for loved ones. She believes in the power of deep empathy, patience, and unwavering curiosity, even in the face of adversity.

As a caregiver of her mother living with Alzheimer’s Disease, Jessica has observed the challenges faced by families, particularly those caring for individuals with dementia. She emphasizes the need for a fundamental shift in the way caregiving is approached, involving individuals, families, and healthcare professionals working in synergy. Through her platform “Career & Caregiving Collide™,” Jessica shares her insights and pioneering ideas, guiding others in navigating the intersection of their professional careers and caregiving responsibilities. Her mission is to amplify diverse caregiving narratives and ensure caregivers feel fully supported.

Jessica brings over 13 years of experience in the education and non-profit management & leadership fields. She is now using her experiences to drive her own entrepreneurial efforts to create a better, more equipped world for caregivers and their loved ones. She received her degree in Sociology & Education Policy at Dartmouth College and Master’s degree in Educational Leadership & Policy from Southern Methodist University in Dallas, TX.

Connect with Jessica:

You can learn more about Jessica and her caregiving journey at www.jessicacguthrie.com or follow her on Instagram @CareerCaregivingCollide.