National Caregivers Day

National Caregivers Day on the third Friday in February honors the health care professionals across the country providing long-term and hospice care.

Around the nation, dedicated health care professionals serve those who require long-term or hospice care. They provide vital services, reassuring patients and the families who care about them. Often loved ones require care we are not able to provide. We are either not physically able or do not have the skills or means to provide them. Expert caregivers are trained to provide round-the-clock services in safe environments. Their care enables the family to focus on their loved one’s healing process. In hospice care, a caregiver allows the family to spend time with their loved one without worrying about medical responsibilities.

Caregivers deliver a variety of duties from personal care to medical services with compassion and professionalism. Their days may be long and demanding, but they provide support to those who need it most.

The celebration recognizes caregivers who provide quality, compassionate care every day.

HOW TO OBSERVE #NationalCaregiversDay

  • Take time to thank a caregiver for their dedication and care of our loved ones.
  • Give them a card of thanks. This may seem like a simple gesture, but it will mean a lot to the caregiver.
  • Let them know with a kind word of encouragement. Your recognition will inspire them to continue their quality work.
  • Tell their supervisor how much you appreciate the services. Compliments are rarely voiced. Take the time to make yours heard.
  • Employers can provide a special appreciation luncheon.
  • Use #NationalCaregiversDay to post on social media.

NATIONAL CAREGIVERS DAY HISTORY

Providers Association for Home Health & Hospice Agencies (PAHHHA) founded National Caregivers Day in 2015 to dedicate a day to caregivers everywhere. The first observance occurred in 2016. For more information, please visit http://pahhha.org/.

In 2016, the Registrar at National Day Calendar proclaimed the day to be observed on the third Friday in February annually.

 

Caregivers FAQ

Q. Are caregivers nurses?
A. Some caregivers are nurses. However, a professional caregiver may also be a Certified Nurse Assistant or other professionals who are trained to provide a variety of services.

Q. Is there a day to celebrate those who receive services from a caregiver?
A. Yes. National Assisted Living Week takes place each year on the week of Grandparent’s Day.