By Tim Wholf

In recent months, readers may have noticed a shift in focus on the topic of caregiving nationwide and a growing number of articles here in The Best Times. I have also had the privilege of participating in community events highlighting caregivers. This intentional focus reflects the ongoing need to raise awareness about the vital role – and growing number – of unpaid caregivers across the nation.

When we ask, “What is a caregiver?” the answers vary. It might be someone picking up prescriptions, driving a loved one to doctor’s appointments or preparing meals. These everyday acts of kindness may seem like the role of a good neighbor, friend, or family member – but they also define someone as an informal, unpaid “family caregiver.”

Today, an estimated 53 million Americans – about one in five adults – serve as unpaid caregivers. In Kansas alone, AARP estimates 340,000 people provide care valued at $4.5 billion annually.

If you aren’t currently a caregiver, chances are you will either become one or rely on one at some point in the future.

Caregiving takes many forms. Some roles are familiar, like a husband supporting a wife with dementia or an adult daughter caring for a parent with Parkinson’s. Others are less visible, such as grandparents raising grandchildren or even children under 18 caring for relatives with chronic health conditions. Then there are “sandwich caregivers” – adults supporting both aging parents and dependent children at the same time.

No matter the role, caregiving is challenging. Unpaid caregivers face higher risks of anxiety, depression and social isolation. Too often, it’s difficult to know where to turn for help or how to find a much-needed break.

The Johnson County Area Agency on Aging is committed to supporting caregivers. To that end, we have once again partnered with Trualta to provide a free, evidence-based, online caregiver education and support platform.

Caregivers can sign up at joco.trualta.com on a smartphone, tablet or computer, to access practical, bite-sized lessons on caregiving skills – from assisting with daily activities like bathing and transferring a loved one, to managing stress and preventing burnout.

Content also includes guidance for families caring for loved ones with Alzheimer’s or dementia, intellectual or developmental disabilities, heart disease, diabetes, COPD, a recent stroke and more.

“Caregiving isn’t just about managing daily tasks. It’s about maintaining dignity, compassion and connection for both the caregiver and their loved one. Our shared goal with JCAAA is to empower families with practical knowledge and support so that caregiving can be more sustainable, less overwhelming and ultimately more rewarding,” said Jonathan Davis, founder of Trualta.

As we recognize National Family Caregivers month this November, JCAAA and Trualta are proud to renew our partnership and honor the essential work caregivers do, wherever they may be on their caregiving journey.

Tim Wholf is director of the Johnson County Department of Aging and Human Services which includes the Johnson County Area Agency on Aging.