November is a special month for millions of people across the United States. It’s National Family Caregivers Month (NFCM), a time to recognize, honor, and support the family caregivers who provide invaluable care to their loved ones. This year, the theme chosen by the Caregiver Action Network (CAN) is #CaregiversConnect, emphasizing the importance of connections in the caregiving journey.
The Role of Caregivers
Family caregivers are the backbone of support for older adults and people with disabilities in the U.S. They provide assistance with a range of tasks, from managing finances and providing transportation to helping with household chores and medication management. Their services often make it possible for their loved ones to remain at home, filling a gap that would be astronomically expensive otherwise.
However, caregiving can be a challenging role. It can be tedious, repetitive, physically demanding, and emotionally straining. Many caregivers sacrifice their own well-being to take care of their loved ones[5]. Research indicates that caregiving takes a significant emotional, physical, and financial toll, with many caregivers vulnerable to a decline in their own health.
The Importance of Connections
The theme for NFCM 2023, #CaregiversConnect, highlights the importance of connections for caregivers. Connections can be a way to get information about a loved one’s condition, to share experiences and get support, and to form meaningful bonds with those in our networks.
Research has shown that meaningful relationships, such as support from friends and family, have been associated with lower reported caregiver stress. Social connections can also influence caregiving behaviors, with caregivers who reported more social support having more positive interactions with their loved ones and being less anxious in their caregiving.
Supporting Caregivers
Given the challenges faced by caregivers, it’s crucial to provide them with adequate support. The Administration for Community Living (ACL) works year-round through programs and councils to support and empower family caregivers. The 2022 National Strategy to Support Family Caregivers was created to support family caregivers of all ages, from youth to grandparents, and regardless of where they live or what caregiving looks like for them and their loved ones.
During NFCM, we raise awareness of the societal value provided by caregivers and ask for greater support. This includes educating family caregivers about self-identification, raising awareness of family caregiver issues, and increasing support for family caregivers.
Celebrating Caregivers
NFCM is also a time to celebrate caregivers. Many caregivers have deep passions and interests outside of their role as caregivers, and NFCM is a time to recognize and honor them for who they are as individuals, as well as for the invaluable care they provide.
In conclusion, National Family Caregivers Month is a time to recognize, honor, and support the millions of family caregivers across the country. It’s a time to raise awareness of the challenges they face, to increase support for them, and to celebrate them for the invaluable role they play in our society. Whether you are a caregiver yourself or know someone who is, let’s use this month to connect, support, and honor caregivers in our communities.
