Services for Family Caregivers

Who is a family caregiver?

We all know people who are caring for loved ones. In the US there about 65 million family caregivers-- people who help a family member, friend or neighbor who is ill, disabled, elderly or a special-needs child. This is roughly one-third of all households and of the adult population1 and demographic trends tell us that these numbers are growing. Many of these 65 million people don’t think of themselves as caregivers. Instead, they see themselves as helpers, not heroes; just trying to give support, not get recognition.

Are you a family caregiver?

You may not think of yourself as a caregiver, but you are if you provide physical care, emotional or social support, if you mange household or personal affairs for family, friends or neighbors. It is important to recognize that you have legitimate needs of your own. Why? Providing ongoing care and assistance can lead you to feel overburdened and alone. It can undermine your physical, emotional and financial health. It can erode your productivity at work and relationships at home. Support from others and your own self-care can help you build the well-being, wisdom and strength you’ll need for your caregiving journey. Check to see how Partners on the Path can help you.

What can Partners on the Path do for you?

Because we have been family caregivers, we know the litany of challenges you face. Let us help you with the on-line, in-print or in-class resources we developed especially for family caregivers like you.

  • 1. Self-care guidance: The 7C’s of Self-Care, our research-based, trademarked approach to caring for yourself as you care for others. These insightful, practical, no-cost guidelines are available on our website, or in our book, The Caregiver's Guide to Self-Care: Help for Your Caregiving Journey (Infinity 2010). Purchase from Amazon.com
  • 2. Self-care activities: Questionnaires, checklists, discussion guides and inspiring quotes to help you evaluate your experience and ease your stress.
  • 3. Caregiver resources: A vetted list of valuable information available on-line and in-print at Amazon.com or your local bookstore.
  • 4. Caregiver communities: On-line connections with supportive experts and other caregivers who understand and want to help.

Endnotes

1Caregiving in the US. National Alliance for Caregiving, AARP and The MetLife Foundation. 2009.