Celebrating Caregivers: November Is National Family Caregivers Month

Updated on November 28, 2024 Listen to the Podcast

There are 53 million family caregivers in the US, but many out there don’t even think of themselves as such–and as a result, could be missing out on valuable resources that might make their lives easier. That’s why this November, National Family Caregivers Month is shining a light on the wellbeing of caregivers. The goal is both to celebrate the contributions of family caregivers and advocate for them, as well as raise awareness of the resources and support systems they need. Because when it comes down to it, the mental and physical health of caregivers is just as important as that of their loved ones. 

What Is “National Family Caregivers Month”?

National Family Caregivers Month is an annual US event that acknowledges those who devote time, energy, and patience to helping family members in need–and the many societal benefits that result from such caregiving. 

The cost of caring for an elderly person or someone with special needs, such autism spectrum disorder (ASD), is steep. Those with dementia often need a day care facility, which costs an average of USD 2,058 per month. Similarly, families who have a child with ASD can expect to spend thousands per month to cover medical care, therapy, special education, and other services. 

The emotional connection that family caregivers have with those they help can mean a better level of care and a higher level of comfort for everyone. National Family Caregivers Month reflects how much we all should acknowledge and appreciate that help.

Who Exactly Is a Family Caregiver? 

There are many different kinds of support that people offer loved ones, which might qualify them as an essential caregiver. Obviously, parents are primary caregivers and usually involved in many of the functions listed below. But typically, a family caregiver is a relative who:

• Brings a family member to the doctor’s office, emergency room, or therapist on a regular basis


• Is responsible for buying medication or groceries


• Represents someone for issues related to long-term care, insurance, and healthcare bureaucracy (i.e. not in a professional capacity such as a lawyer)


• Takes a central role in the social life of a person who would otherwise be alone

 

Raising Awareness and Providing Support to Family Caregivers

Being a caregiver can carry a significant emotional toll. National Family Caregivers Month is one way of making people feel that they are not alone. With the public marking of the importance of this role, many caregivers feel “seen” and supported in the sacrifices they have made, so that their loved ones with special needs can enjoy life a bit more.

In addition, by highlighting caregivers, connected stakeholders become more aware of their situation. For example:

• People who know a caregiver can step in more frequently to give relief.


• Employers can consider easing the burden by offering work-from-home options, paid time-off, and being considerate of periodic late arrivals to/early departures from the office.


• Politicians and governments might examine additional policies such as tax reductions and paid family leave for caregivers. 


• Society in general can increase their charitable donations to organizations that support caregivers and the people they help.

 

Valuable Resources Available to Family Caregivers

Each year, a theme is chosen for National Family Caregivers Month. In 2024, the theme is “I Care”. The fact is, many people are caregivers without even thinking about it. According to the National Alliance for Caregiving, 53 million Americans provide care without being formally acknowledged or paid. Countless people should in fact be recognized as caregivers, but simply do not realize it. Why does this matter? Because they could be missing out on highly valuable resources, including:  

Getting Properly Informed

Caregivers have a double role. They take on a responsibility for helping someone in need, and the resulting stress means that they need help themselves. Luckily, there are many resources out there for both goals – but it’s crucial that caregivers discover and take advantage of these  support programs. For example:

• Help desks that provide advice. For example, the Caregiver Action Network has a free telephone support line.  


• Non-profit organizations created to assist various types of caregivers


• Support groups that are active across all kinds of media, and which give personalized advice. Here is an extensive list of such groups. Many of them specialize in specific areas of care such as memory loss and caring for the elderly. 

As a caregiver, you also need to keep people informed. In many situations, it’s  important to mention that you are a caregiver–and maybe have your name listed in certain health care systems. For example, in an emergency room, letting the staff know that you are deeply involved in a patient’s healthcare will identify you as a crucial source of information. This of course will ultimately lead to better care for the patient.  

Better Managing Stress

One thing that nearly all caregivers have in common is some level of stress. But in order to care well for another, you have to take care of yourself too. Take note of how much of your time and emotion is invested in caregiving. Perhaps reach out to a therapist for targeted support in managing the emotional toll of being a caregiver. Explore strategies for minimizing stress, whether that’s breath work, exercise, time in nature, personal time, etc. 

After all, the goal of this year’s “I Care” theme is self-identification. Many of us regard caring for a loved one as being “just a good child” or parent or helpful friend. Self-identification makes you pause and think about your role in someone else’s life, and how to better take advantage of the resources out there that can support these efforts. 

 

A Device that Cares for You

One powerful tool to add to your toolkit is AngelSense. It’s an assistive technology designed specifically to ensure safety and greater independence for loved ones with special needs, Alzheimer’s or dementia, while providing their caregivers with much needed peace of mind. AngelSense includes a variety of features that enable easy communication, real-time location details, automatic notifications of potential dangers, and remote assistance capabilities for anyone who may need help–from the very young to the elderly. 

With resources like AngelSense, the weight of caregiving can feel a whole lot lighter every day.