You May Be a Caregiver Without Knowing It
November 5, 2026
During National Family Caregivers Month, the California Department of Aging highlights everyday caregiving and resources to support unpaid family caregivers
November is National Family Caregivers Month, a time to recognize the millions of Californians who care for family members, friends, and neighbors. This year's focus on "Caregiving Looks Like This" highlights how everyday acts of support are caregiving and connects caregivers with resources to help them.
In homes and communities across California
Nearly 6.4 million Californians are unpaid caregivers who help older adults and adults with disabilities stay safe, supported, and connected to their homes and communities. Many provide care without thinking of themselves as caregivers.
Caregiving often looks like everyday life. Driving a parent to medical appointments, helping a spouse with medications, preparing meals for a neighbor, or checking in on a friend are all caregiving.
Yet many people providing this support don't think of themselves as caregivers or know where to turn for help. Recognizing the role is an important first step toward finding information, resources, and support for their own needs.
Fast Facts: Caregiving by the Numbers
Interviews can be arranged in November with an unpaid family caregiver, a California Caregiver Resource Center director, and California Department of Aging (CDA) Acting Director Claire Ramsey. Visual opportunities may include everyday caregiving activities such as preparing a meal, organizing medications, helping with transportation, or checking in with a loved one. Photo or video opportunities must be coordinated in advance with participants through CDA.
Through its network of local Area Agencies on Aging and California Caregiver Resource Centers, CDA connects caregivers with information and services. Depending on needs and eligibility, support may include training, counseling, support groups, temporary in-home relief (respite care), and help finding local resources. Visit aging.ca.gov to learn more.
Please contact us for more information, to arrange interviews with caregivers or caregiver support experts, or to request photos of Californians caring for older adults or adults with disabilities.