A Special Note for National Caregiver Month

Do you ever think, I need a short break from this pandemic? Just a weekend away from the fear, foreboding, and gravity. Have you thought to yourself, I don’t know how much longer I can do this, knowing full well there is absolutely no escape from whatever the remainder of this pandemic is? The mounting pandemic weight described here feels very similar to what caregivers feel regularly and consistently even on good days.

November is National Caregiver Month to recognize those “family” or unpaid caregivers who are helping an aging, ill or disabled adult. There are 53 million family caregivers in the US, so one in five of us is a caregiver. Three out of five are women; the average age is 49; and the average duration of the caregiving is 4.5 years.*

Now, imagine the pandemic weight that we are all feeling goes on for 4.5 years. Then, consider what happens at the end of that 4.5 years. Unlike the pandemic, it will not likely be a gleeful return to vacations and concerts.

Please don’t stop reading here and skip to the pics of Fido because this is too sad or too serious. Just take a minute and experience the empathy I know you have.

Who are the family caregivers you know? Name them. If you are now thinking What can I do to help? The answer is, something that makes them feel less isolated or eases burden and requires little or no response on the caregiver’s part. 

A text that says:

• “Thinking of you” or “Sending you love and courage.” (requires no answer)

• “I am headed to the grocery store at about 1pm today, what can I pick up for you and leave on your doorstep?” (gives them a timeline and does not obligate them to a visit)

• “I just left you a surprise on your front porch.” (favorite candy bar, book or magazine, bottle of wine)

Of course, you know these little acts of thoughtfulness will benefit both of you – the caregiver will feel a little less alone and more appreciated and your heart will be filled with that wonderful giving feeling.