Time off and a leave of absence both signify that an employee is away from work, but the reasons for these requests vary significantly. Unlike traditional time-off categories such as vacation or sick days, leave of absence often arises from deeply personal and complex situations. These circumstances can be highly nuanced and emotionally charged, presenting unique challenges for both employees and employers to navigate.

Caregiving leave is becoming an increasingly requested and offered benefit, as employers recognize the need to support employees juggling work and family responsibilities. As our population ages, more individuals find themselves part of the “sandwich generation,” balancing the demands of raising children while caring for elderly parents. In the U.S., approximately 100 million adults identify as caregivers, with just over half (53 million) supporting a spouse, elderly parent, or special-needs child. This growing trend highlights the need for workplace policies that provide meaningful support for these often-overlooked responsibilities.