Encouraging Caregivers to “Plug In To Care” This National Family Caregivers Month
November marks National Family Caregivers Month (NFCM), an observation recognizing and honoring family caregivers across the United States. Since 1994 our partner, the Caregiver Action Network (CAN) has been advocating for recognition of family caregivers. This year’s theme, “Plug In To Care,” encourages caregivers to connect with vital resources, such as peer groups, educational webinars and networks, and each other.
The caregiving journey is never easy; that’s why having a community is so important, whether you’re connecting with a friend, a family member, a medical professional or a clergy member. According to the AARP, the average time spent caregiving has increased significantly, rising from an average of 9 hours per week in 2020 to approximately 26 hours per week in 2023 and early 2025. In fact, its estimated nearly one in four people spend more than 40 hours a week in a caregiving role, which is the equivalent of a full-time job.
Easing the Burden of the Family Caregiver
Family caregivers play an invaluable role in our society, often making it possible for loved ones to remain at home. Their care fills a critical gap that would otherwise come at an extraordinary financial cost—and they fulfill a range of roles in the process, from organizing and giving medication to managing finance and home maintenance.
As we recognize the infinite number of ways family caregivers selflessly support our loved ones this month, let’s show them our appreciation by stepping in and easing their load. The Caregiver Action Network, a trusted voice for those who care for others, shares four ways you can support a caregiver in your life:
1. Provide emotional support: let them know you are available to “plug in” and that you care.
2. Offer practical help: assist with errands, chores or daily tasks to lighten their load.
3. Give them a break: arrange for a trusted individual to cover for them so they can recharge.
4. Help them take care of themselves: encourage them to make themselves a priority and urge them to see a doctor or mental health professional if needed.
Providing Dignity for Loved Ones and Caregivers
In 2024, First Quality joined the Caregiver Action Network and its Corporate Leadership Council as part of our commitment to empowering caregivers. Our partnership helps us connect caregivers with valuable resources, foster a sense of community, and provide the support they need. This year, we are proud to join CAN as the national sponsor for NFCM. Our experience working closely with caregivers has deepened our appreciation for these unsung heroes.
As a leading provider of youth and adult incontinence products, caring for caregivers is central to our mission at First Quality. This year, our clinical educator Michele Mongillo, author of “Caring with Dignity: A Caregiver’s Guide to Incontinence,” joined CAN’s president, Marvell Adams Jr., in speaking with media nationwide to spotlight how NFCM raises awareness of family caregivers’ everyday challenges, including work-life balance and managing incontinence.
“Many people don’t see themselves as caregivers. To them, it’s simply what a loving spouse, child, or parent does: offering day-to-day help to someone they care about,” said Mongillo. “Yet, without recognizing the physical and mental demands of caregiving, they may overlook their own health and well being while devoting themselves to ensuring comfort and dignity for their loved one. This month is a reminder that no one has to go on the caregiving journey alone.”
To learn how you can plug into caregiver resources and show your support, visit www.caregiveraction.org/nfc2025/.
