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November is the month of Thanksgiving and a time for expressing gratitude. It is also National Family Caregivers Month, a time to recognize and honor family caregivers. Family caregivers do the hard work of caring for loved ones, including aging loved ones living with dementia who require daily support.

Who are the Caregivers? 

According to Caregiving.org, about 61% of caregivers are women, with 39% being men. These women are spouses, sisters, daughters, and daughters-in-law. And the most significant number of caregivers, about 34%, are Baby Boomers, with 61% working outside the home.

No matter who the primary caregiver is, this person works to care for their senior loved one out of love and concern for that person’s wellbeing. They sacrifice much to care for all their loved ones, especially seniors who have dementia and require memory care support.    

Caregivers are special people who are determined to show love and support the needs of their loved ones. It’s not uncommon for caregivers to make great sacrifices to support the daily needs of aging relatives or parents. They give of themselves out of love and gratitude for the care they were provided or shown. They are special people who give of themselves without complaint to care for those suffering from cognitive issues.

How Caregivers Support Loved Ones

Those caring for senior family members do many things to support aging loved ones. For instance, if the senior lives with them, a caregiver may equip their home with assistive devices. These may include grab bars in the bathroom, ensuring carpets are tacked down, and more. They understand that safety is first and foremost when caring for seniors and elderly family members with dementia who may also have impaired mobility.

Other duties provided by caregivers include:

  • Taking loved ones to doctor appointments and for treatments.
  • Ensuring they eat nutritionally balanced meals and snacks.
  • Helping them take their medications correctly and on time.
  • Supporting their cognitive and social needs.

Caregivers may also be responsible for bathing their loved ones, doing their laundry, and other hygienic tasks. With all the care they provide, caregivers are giving, loving, and supportive.

How to Show Appreciation for Caregivers

Now and every day is the perfect time to show appreciation for the caregiver in your family. But how can you show them your appreciation and gratitude?

Caregivers rarely take time off for themselves, even though they can use a break from time to time. So, why not show appreciation by offering to care for your senior loved one for a day? That gives your family member time to recoup and care for themselves. Practicing self-care is essential to avoid burnout and other issues. Also, consider cooking a meal for a caregiver or taking them out. Doing so would be a great treat and a fun way to spend time together.

The idea is to offer caregivers the help and assistance they need but usually don’t ask for. Supporting a caregiver is a thoughtful way to show appreciation and sincere gratitude for the care they provide an aging family member.

Closing Thoughts

There may come a time when it’s no longer possible for a family caregiver to care for a senior living with dementia at home. When that time comes, families may want to consider a memory care facility in San Antonio.

When family caregivers can no longer support a senior’s growing needs, Pipestone Place is here to help. We provide senior residents living with dementia with the care they need to have the quality of life they deserve. Contact us today to learn more about our care plans and cognitive programs. And remember to express gratitude to the caregivers in your family. They will feel recognized and appreciated.

I enjoy working, but when I’m not working, I love spending time with my family and the coolest kid, my son.We visit the zoo and ride the train often. We play games and just have fabulous fun.I enjoy reading every chance I get.My favorite pie is pumpkin pie.
Samuel Vesa
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