Family Caregivers

 Family caregivers (also referred to as “carers”) are “relatives, friends, or neighbours who provide assistance associated with an underlying physical or mental disability but who are unpaid for those services.” The Role of a Caregiver - Caregivers are liable for the physical care and emotional support of somebody who cannot look after them self-due to illness, injury or disability. This often includes providing support with financial and legal affairs as well. Offer to take a seat with care receivers while caregivers take an opportunity. Pick up supplies for caregivers so they can stay home and relax. Try to make yourself available to listen as often as they need to vent. Consider accepting all assignments. Family caregivers operate as extensions of health care systems performing complex medical and therapeutic tasks and ensuring care recipient adherence to therapeutic regimens. They operate as home-based “care coordinators” and private advocates for care recipients. As health care costs and utilization continue to rise, individuals facing physical, mental or behavioral challenges are increasingly dependent on the ability of family or other informal caregivers to operate competently as formal health care providers. Yet, despite their important function in our society, caregivers don't receive adequate training, preparation or ongoing support from health care systems. The APA Office on AIDS has more information about caregiving for aging LGBT adults with HIV. Additional information on HIV and aging is also available.