National Family Caregivers Month

The month of November is all about Thanksgiving – but what many don’t know is that November is also National Family Caregivers Month. In the spirit of Thanksgiving, take time to show your appreciation to family caregivers for all that they do.

Caregiver duties are much more than just providing assistance for everyday tasks. The caregiver in your family does their best to be someone you can always count on.

Family caregivers are constantly sacrificing their own time and resources to ensure the health and happiness of their loved ones. Whether you’re the relative of a family caregiver or someone receiving care, it’s always important to recognize their hard work.

Continue reading to learn more about all that family caregivers do and ways you can express your gratitude to the caregiver in your family.

• Care. Family caregivers assume many responsibilities when providing care.
  
  These responsibilities include preparing meals, administering  medication, and assisting with household chores.
  
  Family caregivers also often assist with personal care such as bathing, dressing, and grooming.
• Support. Family caregivers continually give their loved ones support by driving and accompanying them to appointments. Having someone with you during difficult times can make all the difference.

• Encouragement. Caregivers encourage their loved one to live their life to the fullest. They’re always suggesting their loved ones shouldn’t let their age stop them from doing things that they enjoy. They want nothing more than for their loved one to be happy and healthy.
  
  
• Patience. Sometimes, being a family caregiver can be frustrating. Family caregivers can occasionally have arguments with their loved ones. They can also get overwhelmed with their responsibilities, especially if they are new to caregiving. Despite this, family caregivers strive to be patient and understanding.
  
  
• Time. Most often, being a family caregiver comes with little to no compensation. Family caregivers typically have a full time job on top of caregiving and very little time for themselves at the end of the day. Yet, they are still available whenever their loved ones need them. Family caregivers continuously sacrifice their time to care for their loved one’s well-being.
  
  
• Friendship. Above all, family caregivers are your friends. Family caregivers are always trying to find ways to make their loved one smile. They regularly have cheerful conversations with their loved ones and make them laugh. When their loved ones are feeling down, caregivers also there to be a shoulder for them to lean on.
  
  Alert1 understands how important friendships are, that's why we offer a refer-a-friend program. For every friend you refer that signs up, you and your friend will get a free month of service!
  
  

• Kind words. If you have a caregiver in your family, let them know you appreciate them – it can go a long way.
  
  Remember to say things like “please” and “thank you.” It can be easy to forget these things when you’re accustomed to having them around.
  
  If you’re receiving care, understand that your family caregiver works hard to ensure your comfort. Let them know that you notice when they pay attention to the little details. This could be from preparing your favorite food to driving you to an appointment. Lastly, greet them with a smile to brighten up their day!
  
  
• Thoughtful actions. It’s not easy being a family caregiver, so try to be thoughtful whenever you can. If your sister is a caregiver for your mother, be sure to give her some time off. This way, she can have some time for herself to rest and recharge.
  
  Don’t forget to check in with your family caregiver. Ask them how they’re doing when you see them. If Aunt Lily has been driving Grandpa to his appointments every week, offer to help pay for her gas or alternate weeks with her.
  
  Caregivers may seem like super heroes, but they are only human and have bad days too. It’s nice to let the caregiver in your life know you understand and reciprocate the patience they give you.
  
  
• Gifts. Getting your family caregiver a gift is a great way to show your appreciation and put a smile on their face. Treat your family caregiver to a spa day or a massage. Another great option is to take them out to a nice meal at their favorite restaurant.
  
  If you can’t afford  a luxurious gift, that’s alright. Pay attention to the small details such as their favorite snack or book. Sometimes just a simple thank you card with a handwritten message can mean just as much. At the end of the day, it’s the thought that counts.
  
  
• Time off. Your caregivers are there for you and your family 24/7, but they need a break sometimes too. It can be difficult when you have someone in the family who needs constant attention. However, a medical alert device is a great way to maintain peace of mind and also give your caregiver some much needed vacation time.
  
  

Happy National Family Caregivers Month to all family caregivers. You all provide so much for us and ask for so little in return.

November is National Family Caregivers Month, but we should let our family caregivers know that we appreciate them every single day.

If you have a family caregiver in your life, remember to say “Thank you!”

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