Worldwide, there are over 63 million family caregivers. These individuals are mostly unpaid but have an economic value totaling to more than $470 billion. Their services fill a gap in healthcare that would, otherwise, be vastly expensive. The tasks these caregivers perform can be tedious, repetitive, physically challenging, and emotionally draining.
Who are Caregivers? What Do They Do?
Family caregivers are individuals who provide assistance or care to a family member that suffers from any physical, mental or developmental disabilities. This could be a short-term or long-term arrangement. They provide help with activities of daily living and other aspects of life.
Family caregivers provide personal care, medical care, and other life management tasks. Personal care could include bathing, dressing, hygiene, transferring chairs, or meal preparation. Medical care could range from organizing/giving medication, attending medical appointments, maintaining medical records or information, or performing basic medical tasks. Shopping for food/clothing, helping with transportation, paying bills, or housekeeping are potential life management tasks that they can help with.
History of National Family Caregivers Month
National Family Caregivers Month was established in 1994. It was founded by the Caregiver Action Network (CAN). President Bill Clinton signed the 1997 National Family Caregivers Week Presidential Proclamation. Since then, every US president has followed suit by proclaiming November as the National Family Caregivers Month. Although lots has changed since 1997, the purpose of this month remains to
- Raise awareness of the mental and physical load of being a family caregiver
- Educate communities about the challenges and support caregivers need
- Connect caregivers with easily accessible resources
- Honor caregivers and all that they do for our families and communities
2025 Theme: Plug-In to Care
This year CAN has announced the theme to be Plug-In to Care. The CEO of CAN, Marvell Adams Jr., states “We’re meeting caregivers where they are — whether online, at home, or at work. Across every community and every caregiving journey, this campaign delivers tailored, user-friendly support.” The theme focuses on connection to vital support tools, trusted networks, and educational resources with just the click of a mouse. The goals are to create a supportive environment to combat fatigue and feeling overwhelmed. Over 60 partners have teamed up to create accessible and reliable information to achieve these goals.
Caregivers Need Care Too
For many caregivers, they sacrifice their own well-being to take care of their loved one. This is why it’s important to make a special effort to make their lift a bit easier. Here are different ways to support your family caregiver:
- Provide Respite Care: Spend a morning or afternoon with their loved one to allow them to take some time for themselves. Offer once a week, once a month, or just once—period. Anything helps.
- Check in regularly: Give them the space to talk about or vent about their experiences. No need to offer advice or opinions; a listening ear is enough. Reassure them that you see how hard they work and how valuable they are.
- Be specific with your offers: Instead of saying “Let me know if you need anything”, make specific offers because it can be difficult to ask for help. For example, “Would you like me to take ____ to their appointment on Monday?”
- Help with chores: bring a meal, clean the house, do yard work, or tackle any other life tasks. This helps ease the burden placed on the caregiver and makes them feel supported.
- Keep inviting them: Even when you know they won’t be able to attend an event, an invitation lets them know you’re thinking about them and value their presence. And they might surprise you!
- Offer encouragement: A thoughtful card or text can show that you recognize the gift of their service.
FAQs
Q: How do I know if a caregiving resource is trustworthy?
A: Look for resources from nonprofit, government, or well-established health organizations. Ask your healthcare provider for recommendations
Q: I feel isolated. Are there ways to connect with other caregivers like me?
A: Absolutely. Many caregivers find comfort and guidance by connecting with others who share their experiences. You can join online caregiver support communities, virtual meetups, or local in-person groups through hospitals, community centers, or national caregiving organizations. Even a short chat with someone who’s “been there” can make a world of difference.
Q: I don’t have much time. Are there quick ways to connect or find support?
A: Yes—try online forums or social media groups that fit your schedule. Some organizations offer text-based support or on-demand webinars that you can watch at any time. Even a few minutes spent reading others’ stories can help you feel less alone.
Q: Where can I learn more about Plug-In to Care and caregiver resources?
A: Go to CaregiverAction.org or National Council on Aging (www.ncoa.org)