By Vi Lam
October 2024 | 2024 Fall Newsletter
As of July 2024, In-Home Supportive Services (IHSS) data shows that family care providers make up the majority of the IHSS caregiver population. In Santa Clara County, 76% of IHSS consumers have a family member providing their IHSS services. Family can be a relative, parent, spouse, or even someone who is not related to us but is a person’s chosen family.
IHSS care providers may work long hours, performing physically demanding tasks daily and placing the needs of others above themselves. November is National Family Caregiver Month, a great reminder to express thanks and gratitude to loved ones for being a source of support, and for helping consumers stay safe and independent at home.
Giving appreciation and thanks doesn’t have to be a grand gesture. It can be a simple but impactful gesture such as:
- Arranging respite for yourself through local agencies or social services, which allows your caregiver to take some time off for self-care
- Giving acknowledgment and thanks by telling your caregiver how much you appreciate their hard work
- Writing a letter, text or email, or even surprise them by mailing a greeting card
- Finding events that show appreciation for them. If they are a part of the Public Authority Services Registry, encourage them to attend the Caregiver Appreciation Event for active Registry providers held in November
Being recognized for hard work and dedication can greatly improve a person’s wellbeing and you don’t have to wait until November to praise hard work. Gratitude is appreciated any time you can offer it.