Honoring Family Caregivers
November is National Family Caregivers Month
In honor of National Family Caregivers Month, the dedication, compassion and strength of family caregivers is in the spotlight. Whether you’re caring for a loved one or working as a professional caregiver, your role is essential.
A Commitment to Care
Family caregivers provide critical support to aging parents, children with special needs and loved ones who need extra help. Their work can be physically and emotionally challenging – but can also be deeply rewarding. By providing daily help with meals, medication management and companionship, family caregivers keep their loved ones safe, well-cared for and connected to the world around them.
Supporting Family Caregivers’ Well-Being
Family caregivers can find support through the benefits provided by SEIU 775 Benefits Group, including:
- Learning Benefits: Continuing Education offers specialized courses to help manage complex care situations and improve the quality of life for those in your care.
- Health and Wellness Benefits: You have access to health coverage, mental health resources and wellness programs that allow you to care for yourself as you care for others.
- Retirement Benefit: Your Secure Retirement Plan (SRP) provides more income at retirement.
“Being a family caregiver can be a lot of pressure. It’s important to love yourself and care for yourself first, so you can be there for your family. It took me a while to figure this out.”
– Kandie L., Caregiver, Bellevue
Caring for a Loved One? You’re Not Alone
You’re part of more than 53 million people in the U.S. who provide care for a loved one – and this number continues to grow.
If you’re feeling stressed, remember that asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness. Respite care gives you the time to rest, recharge and focus on your own well-being. You can find trusted caregivers through Carina, your job-matching benefit, which connects caregivers with individuals and families in need of care.
Take advantage of support networks in your own community. Or online, like the Caregiver Action Network, to stay connected with other caregivers.
A Moment of Reflection
Take a moment to reflect on the impact you’ve made as a family caregiver.
The love and care you provide has ripple effects that go beyond those you care for. You are creating a better world, one act of kindness at a time. Thank you for all that you do!
