November is National family Caregivers Month

As we come together with family and friends this holiday season, we are reminded to give thanks for the many blessings we have in our lives. For patients recovering from an illness, injury or surgery - a dedicated and compassionate caregiver is one of those blessings.

National Family Caregivers Month - observed every November - is a nationally recognized month focused on the challenges facing family caregivers, a time to advocate for stronger public policy to address family caregiving issues, and raise awareness about community programs that support family caregivers.

Eleanor Rosalynn Carter (wife of former President Jimmy Carter) said it best - "There are only four kinds of people in the world - those who have been caregivers, those who are currently caregivers, those who will be caregivers and those who will need caregivers."

Unfortunately, this is not an exaggeration. According to the National Family Caregivers Association (NFCA), over 65 million people are family caregivers in any given year providing caregiving services valued at $375 billion annually for those caring for older adults.

During National Family Caregivers Month, reach out to a family caregiver you know, whether a neighbor, relative, co-worker, or friend and offer them a helping hand. Be specific - offer a ride to church, a nourishing meal, or a free afternoon. Just a little bit of help makes a big difference for family caregivers.