Great Lakes Wire

Governor Gretchen Whitmer, along with the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) and other state organizations, has declared November as Family Caregivers Month in Michigan. This initiative is part of a national movement to acknowledge the vital contributions of family caregivers who provide assistance to older adults, service members, veterans, people with disabilities, and individuals with serious or chronic health conditions.

Elizabeth Hertel, Director of MDHHS, emphasized the importance of these caregivers: “An estimated 1.7 million family caregivers in our state step up every day to ensure their loved ones can live in their own homes and communities for as long as possible regardless of age or disability status. We are committed to supporting these caregivers not only this month but every month."

Nancy Duncan from the Commission on Services to the Aging highlighted the governor's recognition: “The Commission on Services to the Aging welcomes the Governor’s recognition of the important work done by family caregivers. Their care, love and dedication allow older adults to remain safely at home as they age.”

Support for family caregivers is available through various resources including support groups, toolkits, workshops provided by organizations like Caring Across Generations and AARP Resources for Caregivers and their Families. Additional support comes from advocacy organizations such as the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.

David LaLumia, Executive Director at 4AM stated: “Caregivers experience the impact of caring on their time, with implications for their health, family, work and personal and financial well-being. Caregivers deserve our gratitude and our support. This month we are pleased to recognize their many contributions to some of our most vulnerable citizens.”

Paula D. Cunningham from AARP Michigan acknowledged family caregivers' roles: "Family caregivers are the unsung heroes in our communities providing essential care that enables loved ones to age with dignity at home. This month and every month we honor their dedication and recognize the invaluable support they offer to Michigan's older adults and families."

The Caregiver Action Network notes that over half of those providing care do not identify themselves as caregivers despite performing tasks such as attending doctor’s appointments or managing finances.

For further information on supporting caregivers visit Behavioral and Physical Health and Aging Services Administration (BPHASA).