In 2016 alone, more than 15 million Americans provided an estimated 18.2 hours of unpaid care for people with Alzheimer’s or other dementia. While this number is astounding, many can attest that being a caregiver for someone with the disease costs more than just their time. In fact, it can negatively impact health, work, personal relationships and other family members.
The Kenwood by Senior Star’s executive director Tom Rotz spoke with McKnight’s Senior Living earlier this year to offer suggestions on how to recognize those who provide care for their loved one.
Because November is annually recognized as National Family Caregivers Month, we’re reminded to celebrate the efforts of caregivers, while encouraging others to honor and thank them for their hard work.
Some of Tom’s favorite ideas for showing appreciation to caregivers include:
- Sending flowers, a card or something sweet to show you are thinking of them.
- Preparing dinner – and make plenty enough for leftovers.
- Running a few errands on their to-do list.
- Offering to help with yard work, get their house cleaned or water their flowers.
- Organizing a local fundraiser to help with caregiving costs.
- Picking up a few items at the grocery store to save them a trip.
- Spending time looking after their loved one while they visit a caregivers support group or take time to recharge.
- Walking their dog, or watch their children.
- Treating them to a night out with movie tickets or dinner while making arrangements for someone to look after their loved one.
- Giving a stress-relief care package, full of aromatherapy oils, lotion and more.
- Offering to wash their car or fill up their gas tank.
Caregivers make a difference in the lives of their loved ones every day. If nothing else, simply taking a moment to check in with them and see how they are doing or lend an ear when they need someone to talk to will brighten their day.
Have any appreciation tips? Share them with us on our Facebook page. If you know someone who is a caregiver, or are one yourself, read our Caregiver’s Journey eBook for helpful tips and advice.