November is National Family Caregivers Month. This month, we celebrate Thanksgiving and also honor and give thanks to those supporting an ill or aging family loved one.
Do you know a family caregiver? These are the folks who go beyond their daily work, and life needs to also focus on the multitude of tasks involved in caring for a loved one's health and personal requirements. Family caregivers are selfless, empathetic, and- often exhausted. Caregiving is rewarding, but not for the faint of heart. Below are some ways you can support the caregiver in your life.
Share your appreciation. You admire your family caregiver's devotion and think highly of them, so tell them! Lift a caregiver's spirits by sending a thankful card, tucking an inspirational quote into an email, or merely expressing words of encouragement and appreciation to him or her the next time you are together.
Surprise them with self-care. The very last person a caregiver takes care of is him or herself! Show gratitude to the caregiver in your life by gifting them with a little pampering! Haircuts, manicures, spa visits are all wonderful ideas, but honestly, taking over their responsibilities for the day so they can catch up on relaxation or basic needs would be just as fantastic a pick-me-up!
Send a small gift. The gift should not be expensive; it can even be homemade or found in nature! The point is to gift the caregiver with a token of your gratitude by extending a small bit of unexpected joy their way.