Caregivers are often over-stressed and under-appreciated. We need to remember that they need a break every once in a while, too. My Mom is caring for my Dad as he battles Multiple Myeloma. I try to help out, but but I know I could do a lot more. My Great-Aunt cares for my Great-Grandma who has Macular degeneration.
There are many things caregivers do - they schedule and attend doctor's appointments, keep track of medications, make meals, clean the house, fight with insurance companies, provide emotional support, putting others needs ahead of their own. Family Caregivers are very important - they represent about 80% of all homecare services. Their services are valued conservatively at 306 billion a year. Their service should not be the only thing about them valued so highly; family caregivers need to be recognized as strong individuals who need care themselves. To be in a position of caregiving for any amount of time is extremely stressful. Support your family caregivers any way you can!
Thank you to all the care-givers out there!
~Sarah
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