What is a Caregiver?

A caregiver is an individual such as a family member, neighbor, or friend who assists another person who is ill, disabled, or no longer able to care for himself or herself. Put simply, a caregiver is someone who is responsible for attending to the daily needs of another person. Often, the caregiver also assists with financial matters and guidance, and lends companionship and social interaction. Normally, a caregiver provides more than one aspect of care.

Quite often, families provide most of the care to chronically ill and disabled loved ones living at home. They act as advocates for their loved ones who may have Alzheimer’s or Parkinsons disease, or other illnesses. In other instances, an individual’s neighbor or friend will assist with the various demands of caregiving, including locating appropriate assistance and services.

Caregiving is probably one of the most difficult and challenging responsibilities an individual will ever have, and all too often, the caregiver does not receive sufficient support. However, these special advocates have more resources available all the time. Check Website Resources for additional information and help.