Diversity and Inclusiveness

Caregivers Need Our Support

Nov 7, 2024

Joy Moore
Chief People Officer

Did you know that family members are the primary source of support for older adults and people with disabilities in the U.S.? November is Family Caregiver Month and we want to help the silent helpers among us.

In the U.S., family caregivers are “any relative, partner, friend or neighbor who has a significant personal relationship with and provides a broad range of assistance for an older person or an adult with a chronic or disabling condition.”

According to a 2020 report from AARP, about 89% of family caregivers are relatives, and about 10% provide care to a friend or neighbor. We are happy to announce that starting Jan. 1, 2023, our benefits package includes additional resources to help you get support when you need it most.

How can we show our support? Many family caregivers struggle to balance work with the time it takes to care for someone. This year, the #caregivinghappens campaign, sponsored by the Caregiver Action Network, shows us ways to be supportive as co-workers and as friends.

Recognize that people around you are in family caregiver roles. Be flexible if they are tardy or tired.
Assist where possible. Offer someone you know a break, even if it's just for 15 minutes.
Include the family caregiver and the person they care for in activities. Be inclusive by staying mindful of the time of day, accessibility, and food offered when planning.
Support the family caregiver by listening and connecting with resources. Show understanding if they cannot make it to events or decline at the last minute.
Engage the family caregiver at work. Even if an employee can't always give 100% when balancing family caregiving, don't put their career on hold.

Support is available 24/7. All On Lok employees (even those not eligible or participating in our benefits program) can access our free Employee Assistance Program.

Call: 1 (855) 629-0554 opt 2 or visit Spring Health

Additional resources are available if you are in a caregiving role for a family member, friend, or neighbor. Reach out for help by calling 855-227-3640 or visiting caregiveraction.org.