Sooner or later most people will be caregivers. Over 53 million people were providing unpaid care in the US in 2020, according to AARP. Many never imagined themselves in that role—it just sort of happened. For some, it was an accident or a serious illness in someone who matters, for others it was a gradual decline in such a person. For some, that person is a partner, others a parent, others a friend, or even a friend of a friend. Help is wanted (or needed) and people step up.
In this section, you will learn about:
What is Caregiving?
You may be providing care during a crisis, over the course of a long illness, from a distance, or while caring for others, such as children, as well. Caregiving involves many intertwined activities from the direct, hands on care of a person, looking after their environment, nurturing their social connections, and dealing with doctors, hospitals, and insurance companies. Often, you may forget to care for yourself.
What are the Activities of Caregiving?
When giving care, there may be many things you will be asked to do that you have never done before. Learn what day-to-day duties and activities may be included in both family and non-family caregiving responsibilities, and what you need to know about providing personal and comfort care.
Resources for Caregivers
Caregiving often comes with new responsibilities and unfamiliar tasks, yet most caregivers never receive education or training. In most communities there are different organizations that may offer information or support to help with caregiver duties. We’ve gathered links to resources and groups that can provide you additional support and information as a caregiver.
