This November, we celebrate National Family Caregivers Month—a time to recognize the millions who devote their energy, time, and love to caring for aging family members and friends. At CoAction, we honor these dedicated caregivers who play a vital role in our communities, helping older adults stay as independent and comfortable as possible.
On average, caregivers spend 3.6 hours each day providing eldercare. However, this can vary based on the caregiver’s relationship with their loved one. For example, those caring for a spouse or partner may spend over six hours daily meeting essential needs, while others—such as those helping a parent or friend—may spend a few hours on tasks like meal prep, grooming assistance, or attending appointments. Caregiving can be a big commitment, but many caregivers give their time out of love and devotion.
Caregiving tasks are as unique as the people who provide them. Common duties include meal preparation, housekeeping, grooming, and personal care. Many caregivers also offer companionship and emotional support or simply stay on-call if their loved one needs help. About 40% of caregivers handle household tasks regularly, while a third spend time on shared activities, like watching TV together, to keep their loved ones company and lift their spirits.
Caregiving is rewarding, but it’s also physically and emotionally demanding. This National Family Caregivers Month, CoAction encourages our communities to support caregivers. If you know someone providing care, consider offering a break, helping with errands, or simply being there to listen. Small gestures can make a big difference and show caregivers that their hard work is appreciated.
CoAction supports caregivers and older adults with a range of resources, including educational classes such as Building Better Caregivers, Managing Chronic Conditions & Managing Diabetes, and A Matter of Balance. These classes are designed to help caregivers stay informed on best practices while keeping older adults engaged in meaningful ways.
To all caregivers: thank you for your compassion, strength, and dedication. You are not alone—we’re here to support you every step of the way.
