National Family Caregivers Month (NFC Month) — observed every November — is a nationally recognized month that seeks to draw attention to the many challenges facing family caregivers, advocate for stronger public policy to address family caregiving issues, and raise awareness about community programs that support family caregivers. For more information visit www.thefamilycaregiver.org or call 800-896-3650.

NFCA announces a new resource for family caregivers. The release of the new edition of Suzanne Mintz’ book, now titled A Family Caregiver Speaks Up – “It Doesn’t Have to Be This Hard” will be available on November 1. The book is full of advice and recommendations for how to make the day-to-day aspects of family caregiving easier including lessons from family caregivers across the country, a discussion of the need for health policy changes and step by step guides on issues from taxes to communicating with healthcare professionals.

PAGER Association is pleased to be an endorsing organization of NFC Month and a part of this campaign to bring attention to the needs of family caregivers. The National Family Caregivers Association (NFCA) leads the NFC Month effort and creates a special Family Caregiver Kit with educational and promotional materials to help you celebrate. Here’s what you can do to get involved:

• Remind family caregivers to believe in themselves, protect their health, reach out for help, and speak up for their rights.
• Encourage family caregivers to identify themselves as a family caregiver in conversations with others, including friends and family as well as healthcare professionals.