When Is National Caregivers Day?
National Caregivers Day is celebrated on the third Friday of February; this year, the day of recognition falls on February 21st, 2025. The national celebration offers an opportunity for caregivers to be recognized and appreciated for their hard work and dedication to their patients and loved ones.
First established in 2015 by the Providers Association for Home Health and Hospice Agencies, National Caregivers Day was created to recognize the work of caregivers, both professionals and family members, in long-term care facilities, hospice programs, and in-home care.
In this blog, Boardman Training Center (BTC) highlights the important work of caregivers, ways to thank a caregiver, and pathways to enter the healthcare field through one of BTC’s healthcare training programs. Keep reading to learn more about how to celebrate a caregiver!
Who Are Caregivers?
The term caregiver often refers to medical professionals who work in long-term care facilities, hospices, or home health agencies. It also applies to family members who provide non-medical care for their loved ones. The diverse responsibilities of a caregiver allow anyone, formally trained or not, to have an essential role in a patient’s care.
“There are only four kinds of people in the world: those who have been caregivers, those who are currently caregivers, those who will be caregivers, and those who will need caregivers.” – Rosalynn Carter.
What Do Caregivers Do?
A caregiver may have a vast range of responsibilities based on their level of training, type of work environment, employer, and other factors. For example, home health nurses are qualified to administer medications, provide wound care, monitor vital signs, and perform other medical tasks that require formal training. Meanwhile, a family member caring for a loved one may focus on more personal tasks such as finances, household management, feeding, and emotional support. Professionals and family members both play a necessary part in ensuring the comfort and dignity of the individual being cared for.
One frequently pursued career for individuals who strive to be caregivers is becoming a medical assistant. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics~, the need for qualified medical assistants in various medical facilities is expected to grow 15% from 2023 to 2033. Medical assistants and other medical professionals are crucial in providing high-quality care to patients who face difficult circumstances.
How To Celebrate National Caregivers Day
Caregivers often put the needs of their patients or loved ones above their own, which is why they need to take time to prioritize themselves and know their value. The following are three easy ways to show a caregiver in your life that they are appreciated.
- Offer A Gift of Appreciation
One way to show a caregiver that they are appreciated is to offer a small gift that shows your gratitude, such as their favorite snack or drink, a gift card, or flowers.
- Listen To Them
Caregivers often dedicate their time to caring for their patients or loved ones. While rewarding, this can frequently be emotionally taxing. Listening to and validating a caregiver’s feelings can prevent emotional burnout and help them feel heard.
- Write A Heartfelt Note
Finally, an easy way to show appreciation is by writing a handwritten note or card to give to a caregiver in your life. A simple “thank you” will make them feel recognized and brighten their day.
How To Become A Caregiver with Boardman Training Center
With the growing healthcare industry and the aging population requiring more medical care, the need for healthcare professionals is at an all-time high. Boardman Training Center offers a solution for those looking to enter healthcare, with short-term training programs in medical assisting, medical billing and coding, phlebotomy, and EKG.
BTC’s programs offer hands-on training and preparation for industry-specific certification* exams while making connections and gaining valuable experience.
The path to becoming a caregiver is within reach with the help of Boardman Training Center; request information today to start your healthcare journey!
~BLS statistics are national averages. Employment growth will vary by state and region and should be considered before making an enrollment decision.
*Certification is contingent upon passing the corresponding industry-specific certification exam.