HHSC Highlights Resources During National Family Caregivers Month

National Family Caregivers Month in November recognizes the contributions of people who provide care to a person with physical, behavioral or support needs.

Family caregivers can be spouses, parents, children or close friends. While some receive compensation, the majority are unpaid. According to AARP, there are more than 5 million adult caregivers in Texas, and about two in three family caregivers work while caregiving.

Recognizing yourself as a caregiver can be an important first step toward finding information, training, respite and other critical support.

HHSC is launching the Texas Roadmap to Support Family Caregivers (PDF) initiative, which sets a shared statewide direction to identify and support family caregivers, raise awareness of their role, and improve access to resources.

HHSC is also hosting a free educational webinar, "Supporting Family Caregivers From Recognition to Preparedness" on Nov. 18 at 1 p.m. Central time.

The webinar will feature practical, evidence-based strategies to identify caregiver needs, strengthen communication, and connect caregivers with available supports.

Continuing education credits will be available for nurses, social workers, community health workers and others. Register for the webinar here.

Caregiving can be challenging, and taking time to rest and recharge is crucial. Visit the HHSC Strengthen the Care You Give webpage to learn about available support and resources.

Caregivers of veterans can find support and information through the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Caregiver Support Program or by calling the Caregiver Support Line at 855-260-3274.