Every day, about 63 million family caregivers help older adults and people with disabilities live with independence, dignity, and connection in their homes and communities. Their care strengthens families, enriches lives, and plays a vital role in our nation’s long-term care system.
Caregiving is a helping act that can also be demanding. Family caregivers provide an average of 27 hours of care each week, and nearly one in four provides more than 40 hours. Many balance caregiving with jobs, raising children, caring for other family members, and managing their own health and well-being.
Yet their contributions are all too often unrecognized, as most caregivers are unpaid. Many don’t even see themselves as caregivers — they are just “helping out” a loved one.
Whatever brings people to caregiving, they need practical help, guidance, and someone to turn to. Their health and their well-being matter, too. That is why supporting caregivers is a top priority for ACL. Through programs, partnerships, and resources, we help connect family caregivers to the information, services, and support they need.
Families also rely on direct care workers, whose contributions are essential. Strengthening that workforce is an important part of making sure that caregivers have the support they deserve.
This November, ACL joins communities nationwide in recognizing National Family Caregivers Month and celebrating those of us who care for family, friends, and neighbors.
Throughout the month, we will spotlight ACL's caregiving resources and initiatives, including the upcoming update to the National Strategy to Support Family Caregivers. We invite you to learn more, explore resources, and join us in recognizing the caregivers whose dedication makes such a profound difference to so many every day.
Read more here and follow along on social media to help us celebrate caregivers and spread the word.