November is National Family Caregivers Awareness Month. Since mesothelioma is an aggressive disease, patients rely on caregivers to help them during their cancer battle.
Mesothelioma caregivers play an essential role by providing assistance and aid to patients when they need it most.
When Is National Family Caregivers Month?
November is National Family Caregivers Month (NFCM) — a month-long awareness event to support, thank, and recognize those who dedicate their lives to give care to those who need it.
According to Mental Health America, over 53 million Americans are unpaid caregivers to their family, friends, and neighbors.
This awareness month is led by Caregiver Action Network (CAN), a nonprofit organization dedicated to connecting caregivers with educational and support resources.
According to the Administration for Community Living (ACL), almost 50% of caregivers are over the age of 50 and are increasingly vulnerable to declining health. The ACL also states that support services can decrease the risk of caregivers developing anxiety, depression, and stress.
Caregiving for a loved one with mesothelioma can be challenging. Our Free Mesothelioma Guide offers valuable resources, practical advice, and support options to help you and your family navigate this journey.
What Is National Family Caregivers Month?
National Family Caregivers Month is dedicated to raising awareness of caregiving challenges and extending our support to those who selflessly care for loved ones.
The themes for National Family Caregivers Month 2024 are self-recognition and self-identity, which are both powerful reminders for mesothelioma caregivers to embrace the unique and invaluable role they play.
The job of a caregiver can be extremely difficult, often with little to no pay and a high level of stress. That’s why November is the month for spreading awareness about those who sacrifice their free time to care for someone with mesothelioma.
The Importance of Mesothelioma Caregivers
Mesothelioma doctors and specialists are not the only ones who care for patients. Caregivers play a crucial role in the daily lives of patients.
Patients undergoing mesothelioma treatment may require the help of a loved one to coordinate their daily care needs and navigate busy treatment schedules. Caregivers may be spouses, children, friends, family members, or even professional home health aides for the patient in their care.
Mesothelioma caregivers help loved ones and patients by:
- Administering daily medications
- Assisting with personal hygiene
- Buying groceries
- Completing housework and other chores
- Driving to and from appointments
- Monitoring symptoms and side effects
- Organizing daily schedules
- Preparing meals
Because mesothelioma is such an aggressive disease, many caregivers are also responsible for coordinating end-of-life care.
These responsibilities can take a toll on a caregiver’s mental health. National Family Caregiver Month spotlights the importance of caregivers focusing on their needs and taking the time for self-care.
Download our Free Self-Care for Caregivers Guide and share it with a mesothelioma caregiver you know.
How to Support Mesothelioma Caregivers This November
November is a perfect time to show your support for caregivers who dedicate their time to caring for those who need it most.
Caregivers are often so busy that they forget to take time for themselves, but there are several ways family and friends can help relieve the stress a caregiver may face.
Here are some ways to support caregivers this November:
- Cook a caregiver a meal
- Go for a walk with the caregiver
- Offer to help out with daily responsibilities
- Send a caregiver a thank-you note
- Show appreciation for a caregiver on social media
- Download our self-care guide and share it with a caregiver you know
If you are a caregiver, be sure to take some time out of your busy schedule to do something you enjoy. Whether it be a quiet walk around the neighborhood or watching your favorite movie, don’t forget your own self-care.
This November, take the time to focus on your mental health to help reduce feelings of stress and become a better caregiver.
To learn more about stress-relieving tips for caregivers, call (866) 608-8933 or download our Free Self-Care for Caregivers Guide.
