If you're among the battalion of unpaid caregivers, you're likely familiar with the physical, psychological, and financial toll associated with caring for a family member.
November's National Family Caregivers Month, designed to recognize the day-to-day sacrifices caregivers make, features the theme "Caregiving Around the Clock" this year.
Find ways to care for yourself and make your job less stressful. Here are some resources specific to the unique challenges you may be facing.
- Alzheimer's Association (https://www.alz.org/help-support/caregiving/stages-behaviors) – Learn about the stages of Alzheimer's and how they affect your caregiving role and what your loved one needs as the disease progresses.
- Caregiver Action Network (https://www.caregiveraction.org/family-caregiver-toolbox) – Find advice on various conditions, support groups, videos, and checklists.
- Mental Health America (https://www.mhanational.org/national-family-caregivers-month) – Protect your own mental health and help the loved one with mental illness that you care for.
- National Organization for Rare Disorders (www.rarediseases.org) – Find help if you’re caring for someone with a rare disease. See if you're eligible for NORD's Rare Caregiver Respite Program (https://rarediseases.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/05/NRD-1182-RespiteCare_SS_1up_FNL_NoCrops_Fixed.pdf), which provides financial assistance for caregivers needing a temporary break from their duties.
- The National Resource Center on LGBT Aging (https://www.lgbtagingcenter.org/resources/pdfs/SAGE%20Caregiver%20Guide%20Final%20Interactive.pdf) helps you overcome the unique obstacles associated with LGBTQ caregiving.