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. –Rosalyn Carter
Here is an overview of the history of National Family Caregiver Month (from the national Family Caregivers Association):
In 1994, the National Family Caregivers Association began promoting the celebration of family caregivers during the week of Thanksgiving. President Clinton signed the first presidential proclamation in 1997 and every president since – Democrat and Republican alike – has issued an annual proclamation appreciating family caregivers. As interest grew in family caregiving issues, National Family Caregivers Week became National Family Caregivers Month.
Here are some additional facts about family caregivers:
The value of the “free” care provided by family members in the U.S. is estimated to be about $375 billion/year.
Approximately 1/2 (estimates in studies ranged from 1/3 to 6 in 10) of caregivers are employed outside the home.
More than 7 million caregivers are long-distance caregivers (live more than an hour away from their care recipient).
Caregiving duties and situations vary widely, but the average number of hours per week spent on caregiving duties is 20 hours.
One person caring about another represents life’s greatest value-Jim Rohn
We at EasyLiving wish to share our thanks to all the family caregiver out there for all you do! Throughout the month, we will be bringing you resources and ideas to help make your caregiving journey easier. We encourage you to complete our survey to tell us what caregiver resources you can most use and join our conversations on Facebook as well, to share your favorite tips and resources with other caregivers and eldercare professionals.
If you are an elder caregiver in need of immediate assistance, call our office today at 727-448-0900 to talk about your situation. We offer services ranging from eldercare consultations, resources for caregivers, crisis intervention to Florida home healthcare and in-home senior care. We take the time to listen to you and assist you in finding the help you need…
