About the Observance
Celebrated every November, National Family Caregivers Month (NFCM) is a time to recognize and honor family caregivers across the country. It offers an opportunity to raise awareness of caregiving issues, educate communities, and increase support for caregivers.
The national observance is spearheaded by Caregiver Action Network (CAN) a nonprofit that provides free education, peer support, and resources to family caregivers. CAN announced the 2021 theme, #CaregiverAnd which encourages family caregivers to celebrate the passions and interests that enrich their lives. This is a time to recognize and honor family caregivers across the country.
ACL Efforts in Support of Caregivers
Families are the primary source of support for older adults and people with disabilities in the U.S.
Many caregivers work and also provide care, experiencing conflicts between competing responsibilities. Research indicates caregiving also takes a significant emotional, physical, and financial toll. With nearly half of all caregivers over age 50, many are vulnerable to a decline in their own health. Studies show that coordinated support services can reduce caregiver depression, anxiety, and stress, and enable them to provide care longer, which avoids or delays the need for costly institutional care.
ACL is a proud observer of NFCM, but works year-round through programs and councils to engage, support, and empower caregivers.
For more information, visit
- ACL's RAISE Family Caregiving Advisory Council
- ACL's Advisory Council to Support Grandparents Raising Grandchildren
- Caregiver Action Network
