Each year, in November, we recognize and honor family caregivers. It offers an opportunity to raise awareness of caregiving issues, educate communities, and increase support for caregivers. Families are the primary source of support for older adults and people with disabilities in the U.S.
This year, during 2024 National Family Caregivers Month, the theme is “I Care.” We will highlight the importance of self-recognition and self-identity – key factors in caregivers’ access to essential support.
Identifying as a caregiver opens the door to the family caregiver support needed throughout their journey. In the U.S., more than half of those providing care don’t recognize themselves as caregivers.
As a result, many do not access the tools that can alleviate caregiving stress. To address the caregiving crisis nationwide, we can help individuals identify themselves as caregivers and connect them with resources that can make a difference.
Find resources:
Caregiver Action Network https://www.caregiveraction.org/toolbox/
Family Caregiver Alliance https://www.caregiver.org/caregiver-resources/
Arkansas Department of Human Services Caregiver Resources https://humanservices.arkansas.gov/divisions-shared-services/provider-services-quality-assurance/arkansas-lifespan-respite/caregiver-resources/
5A (Arkansas Association of Area Agencies on Aging) Family Caregiver Support https://agingarkansas.org/services/family-caregiver-support/
In November, we also promote awareness about respite and its importance in the lives of caregivers and care recipients.
What is respite?
Respite (RESS’-pit): Respite is a temporary or short break for caregivers through planned or emergency services that provide a caregiver of a child or adult with disabilities some time away from caregiver responsibilities for that child or adult, and which result in some measurable improvement in the well-being of the caregiver, care receiver, and/or family system.
Arkansas Lifespan Respite Coalition https://humanservices.arkansas.gov/divisions-shared-services/provider-services-quality-assurance/arkansas-lifespan-respite/