Caregivers devote much of their lives to caring for their loved ones. While their tasks are rewarding, caregiving can also take a considerable toll on their mental and physical health. While we often think about the people that need care, it is important that we also recognize the important work of hardworking caregivers among our families and communities.
Every November, the Caregiver Action Network celebrates National Family Caregivers Month, a time to recognize and honor family caregivers across the country. Caregiver Action Network provides free education, peer support, and resources to family caregivers across the country. For 2022, the theme for National Family Caregivers Month is #CaregivingHappens.
The work of Caregivers
Caregivers often find themselves spread thin. In addition to caring for family members, they typically also work and have families of their own. This can take a considerable toll on their emotional, financial, and physical health.
According to the Administration for Community Living, “Nearly half of all caregivers over age 50, many are vulnerable to a decline in their own health. Studies show that coordinated support services can reduce caregiver depression, anxiety, and stress, and enable them to provide care longer, which avoids or delays the need for costly institutional care.”
Celebrate National Family Caregiver’s Month
Whether you are a caregiver, family member, educator, or advocate, there are several things you can do to honor National Family Caregiver Month. Here are a few suggestions:
- Listen to an online workshop: Check with the Caregiver Action Network’s Video Resource Center to listening to the real experiences of caregivers.
- Use #CaregivingHappens to raise awareness: Show your support for caregivers during National Family Caregivers Month by sharing real life stories among your friends and colleagues on social media. Get the #CaregivingHappens toolkit
- View the Family Caregiver Toolbox: The toolbox provides information on how to care for yourself and others along with other local and national resources. View the Family Caregiver Toolbox
- Take care of yourself: National Family Caregiver’s Month is a good time to take some time out for yourself. Take a day off to enjoy your hobbies, go for a day at the spa, or simply take a much-needed nap. And remember to ask for help when you need it!
Being a caregiver is not always easy, but you are not alone. Make sure to lean on family members and friends for support when needed, not only during National Family Caregivers Month but all year round!
Learn more:
View the Age Well Caregiver Center for more resources in Connecticut
View a list of resources for caregivers from the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services
