National Day Update

This was going to be the week to discuss what a caregiver support day could look like and I have been working on a list for the future, but my original plan to have a National Day to support care providers, will need more investigation, research and planning. During correspondence last week about the idea, a previous supervisor asked if I was aware that November is National Caregiver’s Month. I had Googled it and because of my previous work in the Activity field, I was aware of the National Care Giver’s Month, but as I said to her in my reply, I thought the only people who paid attention to those things were Activity Directors because we would plan our calendars around monthly themes.
I received many emails from all over from friends and professionals who were enthusiastic about the idea of doing something directed toward the support of care providers. Only one, a friend who works in activities, mentioned the national caregiver month, which leads me to believe the very thing I was relaying to my previous supervisor.
Hearing from people who were or are care givers themselves and hearing from those who have been in the field themselves for years guides me to want to pursue the idea of a National Day even more.
It is my belief that a specific, condensed focus is easier for people in our world. When there is a day set aside for a cause, like a race or a walk or another type of fund raiser, people can get energy behind it. The same holds true for things like Mother’s Day or Father’s Day or holidays. To have a focused day to support a care giver could bring consideration to them and raise awareness to their needs in a positive way.
So, my priorities this week as far as this issue is concerned, is to do what I can to find out all I can before launching an attempt to set a date, It could be beneficial to wait and do it in November, but one of the things I know personally from being a care giver for so long, ANY day would be appreciated by the care provider.
Initially I thought of a summer date because much is done in November and December toward giving and because I know those who are giving care to someone who is shut in or limited in mobility, could use a boost during the months when everyone is enjoying the sunshine, picnicking, going on vacations and having summer fun.
So for this week the idea of a National Care Giver Support Day is in investigative revision. I will get back to you next week with my findings. In the meantime, any ideas or suggestions would be greatly appreciated. Mary Ann