Saying Thank You to
a Family Caregiver

Caregivers do a noble job of caring for sick loved ones. They are at the front line of care; the first ones to ease the pain of our patients. They are also the first ones to receive flak if anything goes wrong. Easily, they are the last ones appreciated for a job well done. To say ‘thank you’, would you consider hiring a caregiver from a home support agency that offers respite live-in care even for a day or two?
Informal Caregivers
In Canada, as much as 26% of informal caregivers are in distress according to a report by the Canadian Institute for Health Information. The number rises to 45% if they are caring for a loved one with dementia. This results in an increased risk of depression. Furthermore, data from Statistics Canada show that one in four Canadians spend hours caring for family members with chronic diseases or disabilities. This unpaid hour causes emotional distress and misery.
How to Say Thank You to Caregivers
Say a Sincere ‘Thank You’
Saying a simple ‘thank you’ can mean a lot to family caregivers. Oftentimes, these words are what they expect to hear from you to make them feel appreciated. You can make it special by saying it over Thanksgiving dinner and offering a toast. You may also choose to include a card or letter to show your gratitude and appreciation. It will make them feel that their actions are acknowledged and appreciated.
Offer a Time-Off
The job of a family caregiver is hard. They deal with a roller coaster of emotions on a daily basis. Say ‘thank you’ by offering time off. You can suggest that they take a staycation. If it would be hard to manage taking care of your loved one without your family caregiver, consider hiring a caregiver from a home support agency that offers respite live-in care. This short-term care option will allow you to manage your daily activities while your family caregiver is out on a staycation,
Spend a Day Together
If hiring a caregiver from a home support agency that offers respite live-in care is out of the question, why not spend a day helping out your family caregiver? Having quality time with your caregiver is a nice way to express your gratitude. You may want to watch a movie together or play card games.
Give a Gift
Saying thank you to your family caregiver does not need a special occasion. Giving a token of appreciation is enough to make them feel great.
Being a family caregiver is a thankless job. They often feel guilty and lonely. Showing them that they are appreciated will make them feel they are doing a great job, after all.