Family Caregivers Month

Did you know that November is National Family Caregivers Month to recognize and honor family caregivers across the nation? The theme for 2019 is “Caregiving Around the Clock,” which is meant to bring attention to the way caregivers must manage challenges day and night.

Using this month to draw attention to family caregivers affords the opportunity to raise awareness of family caregivers, celebrate their efforts, educate them about self-identification, and increase support. Why is this important? To understand, you need to understand what’s involved in being a family caregiver, and why it’s a 24-hour-a-day job, seven days a week.

Family caregivers are often working moms of school-aged children. In the mornings, they have to help their children including those with disabilities and perhaps a parent they provide care for, while also getting ready for work. During the day, caregivers must check in, because they’re usually responsible for managing medications,meals, and the safety of loved ones. While working a full or part time job, it can be difficult to manage caregiving responsibilities, therefore so many caregivers cut back on their hours or stop working, which puts a financial burden on their family. In the evening, mealtimes take on new importance. Caregivers must make sure to eat properly to maintain strength, energy, and stamina. At the same time, they monitor the diet of the whole family, including those with disabilities.

The job of a caregiver doesn’t end at dinner time Having some alone time to take a breath and re-energize is vital It can be difficult to get rest, however, when it’s necessary to be on alert at all times.

More information can be found on the Caregiver Action Network’s (CAN) website, More than 90 million Americans devote their time to caring for loved ones with chronic conditions, disabilities, disease, or just aging.

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