National Family Caregivers Month: Celebrating Nebraska’s True Home Heroes
November is National Family Caregivers Month, dedicated to recognizing the invaluable contributions of family caregivers. In Nebraska, these dedicated individuals are the bedrock of our in-home care system, enabling loved ones to live independently and with dignity within their own homes.
The Hidden Power of Family Caregivers
A National Force: Across the U.S., about 53 million adults gave unpaid care in 2020 [Source 1].The estimated value of this care was an incredible $600 billion in 2021—that's more than what people spent out-of-pocket on all healthcare! [Source 2]
Nebraska's Dedication: Here in Nebraska, roughly 179,000 family caregivers provide an estimated $2.8 billion worth of unpaid care [Source 3]. These people are the experts at home, helping with everything from daily personal care to complicated medicine schedules and emotional support.
What Caregiving Really Looks Like
Handling the Daily Essentials:
Caregivers step in to manage all the necessary daily tasks their loved one can no longer handle well or safely, such as cooking meals, cleaning the home, doing laundry, grocery shopping, and managing bills. This support is vital for keeping the household running and ensuring safety at home.
The Go-To Coordinator:
Caregivers are almost always the main point person for their loved one's care. They manage all appointments, talk to different doctors, and constantly advocate for their family member. This role significantly increases their stress and workload.
Real Help for Caregivers
Caregiver Tax Credit Act:
The state recognized the financial stress and passed the Caregiver Tax Credit Act. Starting in the 2025 tax year, eligible caregivers can get a tax credit for the out-of-pocket expenses they incur. [Source 4]
The Power of Partnership:
Using professional in-home care services is a great way to get relief and specialized help. This ensures the loved one gets comprehensive support, and it helps prevent the family caregiver from burning out. High-quality agencies work with families to make sure clients can thrive in their own homes.
This National Family Caregivers Month, let's not just honor Nebraska's caregivers with thanks, but by advocating for policies and using resources that give them the sustainable help they deserve. Their dedication keeps our loved ones at home and strengthens our whole community.
Sources and Future Readings:
[Source 1] AARP Public Policy Institute. (2020). Caregiving in the U.S. 2020. Report Link
[Source 2] AARP Press Room. (2023, March 8). New Report Highlights Increasing Cost of Family Caregiving in the U.S. Article Link
[Source 3] AARP Nebraska. (2023). Family Caregivers in Nebraska Provide $2.8 Billion in Unpaid Care to Loved Ones. Article Link
[Source 4] AARP Nebraska. (2024). Supporting Family Caregivers in Nebraska. Article Link
[Source 5] StayHome.Care. (2022). About Us and Services. Website Link
