National Family Caregivers Month: Honoring and Supporting Caregivers

Every November, we recognize National Family Caregivers Month—a time to honor the approximately 90 million family caregivers in the United States. These unpaid heroes provide vital care for loved ones, often juggling caregiving with jobs, financial pressures, and their own well-being.

Recently, on The Balancing Act, CAN CEO Marvell Adams Jr. joined hosts Montel Williams and Olga Villaverde to shed light on the silent struggles caregivers face and the groundbreaking initiatives CAN is leading to support them.

The Growing Need for Caregiver Support

Caregiving is a growing national challenge. As the population ages, the number of older adults and individuals needing care increases, while the pool of available caregivers shrinks.

The impact is immense:

• In 2021, the economic value of unpaid caregiving was estimated at $600 billion—exceeding the budgets of both Medicare and Medicaid.
• 60% of caregivers report experiencing depression.
• Caregivers spend, on average, $110,000 out of pocket annually—roughly 33% of their income.

These figures underscore the urgent need for practical tools, financial assistance, and mental health support for family caregivers.

How Caregiver Action Network Supports Caregivers

At Caregiver Action Network (CAN), the focus is on empowering caregivers with the tools they need to thrive. Here’s how CAN makes a difference:

1. Resources for Mental and Physical Health
   • Caregivers must take care of themselves first to care for others effectively. CAN offers education on topics like handling grief, managing stress, and maintaining mental health. Visit the toolbox for more details.
2. Financial Planning and Support
   • Understanding the financial burden of caregiving, CAN connects caregivers with tools and advice to manage caregiving costs and long-term planning.
3. The Caregiver Help Desk
   • Available 24/7, the Caregiver Help Desk provides caregivers with direct access to information, referrals, and emotional support. Whether you need mental health resources, financial advice, or guidance on navigating your caregiving role, CAN is here to help.
4. Connecting Caregivers Through #CaregiversConnect
   • This year’s digital initiative, #CaregiversConnect, focuses on building caregiver connections. Through online platforms and social channels, caregivers can share their experiences, advice, and encouragement with one another.
5. Partnerships for Health and Wellness
   • CAN collaborates with organizations like Halon, offering health and wellness products tailored for caregivers. These resources provide caregivers with practical tools to support their own well-being and their loved ones’ care.

Why National Family Caregivers Month Matters

National Family Caregivers Month isn’t just about recognizing the role caregivers play—it’s about providing real, actionable support.

As Marvell Adams Jr. explains:

“Self-identification is paramount. When caregivers recognize their role, they can access the resources they need to thrive.”

During this month and beyond, CAN ensures that caregivers have the education, tools, and networks to navigate their journey successfully.