Family Caregivers Month: Refuel Yourself First—Because Empty Tanks Can’t Drive

November is Family Caregivers Month, a time to honor the millions who quietly manage medications, meals, and midnight worries for aging or ill loved ones. Yet the job’s hidden toll—skipped doctor visits, sleepless nights, and swallowed frustration—can leave caregivers running on empty. The truth is simple: the care you give yourself directly fuels the care you give them. A quick walk, a support-group vent session, or even laughing at a dumb joke isn’t selfish; it’s oxygen for the marathon ahead.

The Family Caregiver Alliance exists for exactly this—practical tools, local resource lists, and no-judgment advice so you can learn the disease, tap Meals on Wheels or adult day programs, and swap guilt for regret when tough calls arise. Start small: schedule one non-caregiving coffee date this month, then explore their guides on everything from dementia communication tricks to respite options.

Caregivers in Northern California with spinal-cord injury experience, join our virtual SCI Caregivers Meetup on the first and third Tuesday of each month @ 4PM—real talk, shared wins, and zero pressure. Register HERE.