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National Family
Caregivers Month
By
Libet Callahan |
 Rockland
- November is National Family Caregivers Month, a time
to thank, support, educate and empower family caregivers.
According to the National Family Caregivers Association (NFCA),
more than 65 million people, or approximately 30 percent 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.
Many individuals in need of care—including the elderly and
disabled persons— would have difficulty remaining safely in
their homes without the support of their relatives and
caregivers. The NFCA began to honor family caregivers in
1994 to draw attention to the many challenges facing them,
advocate for stronger public policy to address family
caregiving issues and raise awareness about community
programs that support family caregivers. President Clinton
signed the first proclamation of National Family Caregivers
Month in 1997, and every president since then has recognized
National Family Caregivers Month every November.
Whether caring for a parent, relative or friend, our
nation’s caregivers selflessly devote their time and energy
to provide for the health and well-being of a beloved family
member. During National Family Caregivers Month, we honor
the individuals who care for family members who could not
otherwise look after themselves.
Caregiving takes its toll physically and emotionally.
Caregivers tend to their loved ones’ health and well-being
but often neglect their own health. The NFCA stated that 23
percent of family caregivers who provide aid for loved ones
for five years or more report that their own health is fair
or poor. At my agency, we often see caregivers who care for
a spouse end up requiring hospitalization because of the
strain and lack of attention to their own well-being. The
best way to ensure you will continue to be there for your
loved one is to take care of yourself. Stay in touch with
friends and family members; they can provide support to help
you cope with the demands of caregiving. Exercise and eat a
well-balanced diet. Incorporate humor into your day whenever
possible. And most importantly, seek help when you feel
overwhelmed. Professional home care agencies can provide
respite services so you can take time for yourself and get
the physical and mental rest you need.
If you are a family caregiver, the NFCA’s web site,
nfcacares.org, is a valuable resource for information,
support and advice. Remember to take time this month to
celebrate who you are and the importance of what you are
doing. While November may be the official month to recognize
your efforts as a family caregiver, every month—and every
day—is one in which you make a difference in the life of a
loved one. |
About The Author
Libet Callahan
is the President and Owner of Right at Home Homecare in
Rockland. Right at Home serves families throughout the South
Shore by providing companion, homemaker and personal care
services that enable seniors and those with disabilities to
remain in the comfort of their home for as long as possible.
Libet is a graduate of Columbia University School of Nursing
and has worked in community and in-home nursing on the South
Shore for many years. Libet may be reached at (781) 681-3545
or email at libet@rah-southshore.com.
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