Every November, the nation celebrates and recognizes the vital role of family caregivers during National Family Caregivers Month. A family caregiver is a person who provides care and assistance to a member of their family of origin or their family of choice, and it includes neighbors and friends (2022 National Strategy to Support Family Caregivers). In Virginia alone, 980,000 people provide regular care or assistance to a family member or friend with medical or other support needs. (Valuing the Invaluable: Number of Family Caregivers, Hours, and Economic Value of Caregiving, by State, 2021 - AARP Insight on the Issues, 2023). The caregiving journey can be rewarding and enriching, however many caregivers may also experience emotional, physical, and financial strain. For example, family caregivers lose an estimated $522 billion in income each year due to caregiving. (2022 National Strategy to Support Family Caregivers)

Family caregivers are the primary source of support for older adults and people with disabilities in the United States. They provide compassionate essential care which allows their loved ones to age with dignity in their communities. Caregivers deserve to be supported, valued, and appreciated for the important care they provide each day.