By Damita Miller-Shanklin, Editor-in-Chief

November is a special month for those who work tirelessly behind the scenes, providing care, support, and love to their family members or friends in need. It’s National Family Caregiver Month, a time to recognize and appreciate the invaluable contributions of caregivers. This is very personal for me. My sister and I cared for my mom in the home for over 11 years. My sister was the primary caregiver and I did the weekends. You don’t realize the toll it takes on your health-mental and physical, your relationships with your spouse, friends and family and just your overall well-being. We had no idea how difficult it was to care for someone who was declining in her ability to care for herself. My sister and I made the decision to place our mother in a nursing facility. We cried and the guilt has been tremendous on some days. But it was our last resort. We visit every week and make sure she says hello to her grandchildren. But this is a story of many caregivers.

National Family Caregiver Month goes back to the 1994 enactment of the National Family Caregiver Support Program, a part of the Older Americans Act. The program recognizes the vital role that family caregivers play in supporting their loved ones, especially older adults. In 1997, President Clinton signed a proclamation designating November as National Family Caregiver Month, officially acknowledging the importance of caregivers across the nation.

National Family Caregiver Month is about acknowledging a broader dedication, compassion, and selflessness of individuals who provide care to family members or friends with disabilities, chronic illnesses, or age-related challenges. Caregivers often shoulder huge responsibilities, including personal care, medical support, emotional support, and daily chores. This month is an opportunity to express gratitude and support for their invaluable contributions.

In order to raise awareness about Caregivers, you can do the following:

1. Share Stories: Encourage caregivers to share their experiences, challenges, and triumphs. Their stories can shed light on the diverse roles and responsibilities they undertake daily.
2. Education: Organize workshops, webinars, or information sessions to help people understand the demands and struggles of care giving. Knowledge can lead to empathy and support.
3. Support Services: Advocate for and support organizations that provide services, resources, and respite care for caregivers. Their well-being is essential for them to continue providing quality care.
4. Recognition: Acknowledge and appreciate caregivers in your community, workplace, or family. A simple “thank you” can go a long way.

The Four Things to Know About Caregiving:

1. It’s a Full-Time Job: Caregiving can be a 24/7 commitment. In taking care of your loved one, you can neglect your own health. 
2. Emotional Toll: Providing care is emotionally hard. As a Caregiver you experience stress, burnout, and feelings of isolation. It’s crucial to address these emotions and seek support. 
3. Self-Care is Essential: Caregivers need to prioritize their own well-being. This is harder than it seems. When you are caring for someone, getting away and doing things that make you happy is not easy. You have to plan and find someone to sit with your loved one while you do your self-care. My sister and I scheduled our time so she could get away. But most people do not want to burden someone with the task. But if you can, taking breaks, respite care, and having a balance between caregiving and personal life is very important.
4. Support Matters: Caregivers should seek and accept help from their community, family, and friends. My sister and I waited late to seek help. But we were able to use some resources that did provide a break in care for my sister. You have to communicate with your support team to make sure you do not become overwhelmed.

    5.  Delegate Responsibilities: Don’t hesitate to ask for help from  family members or friends. Share the care giving responsibilities to avoid burnout. This was the only way my sister and I survived. We sacrificed a lot but we knew our responsibility was caring for our mother. 

National Family Caregiver Month is a time to celebrate and honor the unsung heroes who provide love, care, and support to their family members or friends in need. By understanding the importance of caregiving and taking steps to raise awareness and offer support, we can ensure that caregivers receive the recognition and assistance they deserve.