Caring for the Caregiver

November is National Family Caregiver Month. To honor those who care for our patients, we want to provide ways that you can work toward caring for your caregiver. Caring for loved ones can be the most rewarding, yet most exhausting work there is. Caregiving can look different for a variety of roles they may play. These people can be doctors, nurses, medical assistants, office staff, home health aids, spouses, siblings, children, friends…the list goes on. These people often wear many different hats in life, making self-care low on their priority list. Listed below are some of the ways that you can reverse the roles and help take care of those who care for you.

12 Ways to Care for Your Caregiver

1. Offer to cook dinner or order take-out
2. Draw a bath or shower for them after a long day- include epsom salt, essential oils, bubble bath, bath/shower bombs, etc.
3. Book a self-care day- manicure, pedicure, facial, massage, and/or hair
4. Create a care package with their favorite treats
5. Give them a chore coupon book- list out household chores and errands that can be completed by others like grocery shopping, laundry, doing dishes, etc.
6. Plan a day out- a walk in the park, shopping, visiting a museum, going to the farmer's market
7. Make or purchase a bouquet of flowers
8. Give them a card with a personal note of appreciation
9. Arrange for child care for the day (ONLY if there is an agreed-upon,  well established, and trusted caregiver for the child(ren))
10. Check in with them regularly- are they managing their own health needs? 
11. Be a good listener
12. Compliment them on their work 

Questions to Ask Yourself About Your Caregiver

1. What are their interests? What brings them joy?
2. Do they have someone to talk to?
3. How can I fill in, help out, and give them a break?
4. Do we need additional help?

Caregivers are vital to the success of many people’s lives. Remember to appreciate those who care for you and others. We want to thank all of the caregivers who selflessly care for our patients. 


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