Caregivers are superheroes! April 28th is National Superhero Day, a special day set aside to honor every day heroes like firefighters, police officers, and teachers for their dedication and bravery. We also take this day to celebrate the approximately 53 million family caregivers and approximately 5.2 million professional caregivers in the U.S.

Caregivers are a diverse group. Family caregivers may provide care to a spouse, older family member, or a special needs child. Professional caregivers come from all over the world and work in a variety of settings, from assisted living and skilled nursing facilities to personal residences.

These caregiver “heroes” are often hiding in plain sight. They don’t wear capes like fictional heroes or a uniform like a police officer or firefighter. But the resilience and courage it takes to choose caregiving every day makes it important that they are honored and recognized.

Springpoint at Home recognizes the dedication and sacrifice family caregivers give for the person they care for, often at the expense of their own well-being. It is why our Certified Home Health Aides (CHHA) are dedicated to providing compassion and patience to all involved in the caregiving process. It is also why our Aging Life Care Advisors™ are great with their problem solving and communication skills, always willing to help in emergencies to best serve our clients and their families. With support from our professional caregivers and care management team, self-care becomes a possibility for family caregivers.

Caregiving can have a profound impact on the well-being of those receiving the care, AND the caregiver. Studies show the demands of caregiving for both family members and professional caregivers can lead to social isolation and emotional and physical exhaustion, resulting in burnout and health problems. Celebrating caregivers, not just on one day of recognition but year-round, is extremely important.

To celebrate the caregiver in your life, whether they are a family member or a professional, start with kindness. A gift is appreciated, but a “thank you” that is heartfelt and often shows your appreciation for the daily, difficult work they do is just as impactful. Offer to be part of the team and work with the family caregiver in whatever ways they may need. Recognizing that it takes patience, empathy, and problem-solving  to be a caregiver will help them feel validated and appreciated in this work.

Caregiving is not for the faint of heart, and it takes a village. And Springpoint at Home would be honored to be part of your caregiving village. For more information on how we can help, please call 609-301-2101.