By Strength for Caring

November is National Family Caregiver's Month (NFC Month). Each November, we recognize the more than 50 million family caregivers in the United States. Family caregivers provide care to family, friends, neighbors, and loved ones.

According to National Family Caregivers Association (NFCA), family caregivers provide "80% of our nation's long-term-care services. Currently, family caregivers provide over $306 billion annually on "free caregiving services" to their loved ones."

If you are a family caregiver, take time this month to celebrate who you are, and the importance of what you are doing. While November may be the official month to recognize your acts as a family caregiver, every month--and every day--is one in which you make a difference.

Empower yourself, first, by recognizing how great you are, and the honor in what you are doing.

Getting Started as a Caregiver

• Ten Steps to Getting Started as a Caregiver
• What Does Family Caregiving Mean?
• Four Messages to Live By
• Choosing to Take Charge
• Caregiving Skills

Empowering Yourself During NFC Month

• NFCAcares.org: Learn How Family Caregivers Can Speak Up For Themselves
• Identify Yourself as a Family Caregiver with Personal ID Bracelets

Share Your Ideas on How to Celebrate

Comment on this article, below, and let other caregivers know how you plan to celebrate National Family Caregiver's Month! Maybe you plan to set aside just 15 minutes a day for a cup of tea and a good book...or perhaps you'll take a walk with another caregiver. Maybe you'll plan on meeting other caregivers on our Message Boards.

Whatever you plan to do, let us know!