Caring for Family
Caring for family and loved ones requires compassion, dedication, and patience. November is National Family Caregivers Month, a time to recognize family caregivers and their selflessness in supporting loved ones. They assist with activities of daily living to support their loved one as comfortably and independently as possible. “More than 65 million people, 29% of the U.S. population, provide care for a chronically ill, disabled, or aged family member or friend during any given year and spend an average of 20 hours per week providing care for their loved one” (Caregiver Action Network). We are all in this together and should strive to sharpen our knowledge and skills to best support ourselves and others.
Whether it’s a neighbor, relative, or friend, a family caregiver is supporting someone important to them. Providing care is a journey for everyone involved in the care team, including those receiving care. A popular term is “care partner” because caring is a two-way street when people partner in care. The family care dynamic is unique because the people involved may have a personal relationship and history. A family care partner may not be professionally trained or have prior experience in care. However, they have a headstart by knowing the person’s personality and preferences to establish a good care routine.
It’s key to be at your best when caring for others. We all need breaks to recharge and take care of ourselves. Respite care is provided by someone other than the primary caregiver who can be paid or unpaid. It may be from a family member, friend, nurse, or caregiver. This is usually for a relatively short-term period in-home, out-of-home, or in the community. Programs such as Veterans Affairs, Medicare, or Medicaid may cover or reduce the cost of respite care services. There may be a natural feeling of guilt when you are responsible for caring for a loved one and need a break. However, this can benefit everyone as a pleasant change of scenery and a chance for the person being cared for to socialize with others.
This November let’s recognize and celebrate the family caregivers in our lives!
Resources
Carpenter, Chrissy. “Caregiver Statistics.” Caregiver Action Network, 22 Aug. 2024
Respite Care Services
https://www.seniorhelpers.com/tx/san-antonio-north/services/respite-care/
Care Partner Self-Care
https://www.seniorhelpers.com/tx/san-antonio-north/resources/blogs/caregiver-self-care/
Caregiver Resources