NATIONWIDE — In November, known as National Family Caregivers Month, the country recognizes more than 65 million Americans who care for their aging or disabled loved ones. Unpaid care provided by family caregivers makes up 90 percent of long-term care in America, according to a U.S. government press release from 2021.

As a caregiver, it is important to prioritize your own health and well-being to best support your loved ones. Below are a few tips.

Intentionally make time for yourself, to ensure that you are mentally and physically healthy.

Join a support group, and build your caregiving team so you do not feel alone.

Maintain a positive outlook, and find humor in everyday situations.

If you do not live close to your elderly loved ones, you can still help support them from a distance. Check in with your loved ones often. If you are unable to visit in person, phone calls, FaceTime or other forms of communication can help you and your loved ones feel less lonely and isolated.

Schedule a weekly telephone or video chat, send a daily text message, or check in via social media.

Send cards and letters. Getting a letter or card can brighten your loved one’s day.

Send a care package. Because it might be hard for older people to get to the store, putting together a care package of things you know they’ll need, such as canned goods, over-the-counter medicines and cleaning supplies can be a huge help, as well as a reminder that you care about them.

Source: www.dhs.gov/employee-resources/blog/2021/11/03/celebrating-national-family-caregivers-month.