Thank a Caregiver with Random Acts of Kindness #BeKindtoCaregivers

For almost two years, my Mother was by my Father’s side as he coped with lung cancer and diabetes complications. Her hours were 24/7 and I’m sure my Dad was unable to say thank her for all she did for him. My Mother was one of 40 million unpaid caregivers in the U.S. Although she doesn’t fit the most common group – a boomer who’s sandwiched in between the needs of her parents and her children. I’d like to tell you more about about National Caregivers Month. This is a sponsored post on behalf of Element Associates and Midlife Boulevard.

This month’s Random Acts of Kindness initiative aims to recognize and support the unpaid caregivers who work tirelessly to care for their families.

This summer, we surprised our Mother with an 80th birthday party two months BEFORE her birthday. She was over the moon happy to have all of her children home to celebrate.

Random Acts of Kindness for Caregivers

My Mother and millions like her are there for family members in need of daily help. They handle doctor’s visits, food preparation, bathing and major life decisions. Over time, these responsibilities grow and grow. My Mother was already returned by the time my Father’s condition worsened. Other caregivers are not so fortunate. Many work full-time jobs while juggling their sick loved one or family friend’s needs.

How can you help?

Take part in a national movement to perform an unexpected ‘Random Act of Kindness’ for a caregiver.  It’s designed to raise awareness about what caregivers do each day, while providing them unexpected support. This video explains even more on how you can get involved and take part in a $10,000 prize.

 

 

Show your appreciation through Random Acts of Kindness for Caregivers. Do something small or significant for a caregiver you know, then take a photo and share your story in 150 words or less. Your story and others will qualify to win. It can be as simple as giving the caregiver a gift card, a day off or paying one of their bills.

You’d be surprised by how stressful life is for caregivers – physically and emotionally.  AARP has created a community where caregivers can connect with experts and other caregivers and can find information and tools to take even better care of the person who once took care of them. Share this story on a friend’s Facebook wall if you know they need similar support or can tell an empowering story about caregivers.