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The Daily Insight

What to say to someone who is taking care of a family member?

Author

James Craig

Published Feb 21, 2026

Here are five phrases you can say to a family caregiver to show your support.

  • “When are you free to catch up?
  • “You can vent to me, I’m here to listen.”
  • “I care about your health and happiness.
  • “I know you’re doing everything you can.”
  • “I appreciate you.”
  • Get Even More Resources for Family Caregivers.

Can you get a check for taking care of a family member?

California’s Department of Aging offers a Family Caregiver Services Program with funding from the U.S. Administration on Aging through the state’s 33 Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs). Spouses may receive compensation for providing caregiving services under the program in some situations.

How to know if your family cares about you?

Have your family members consistently put the blame back on you when you try to discuss certain things that you are worried about. Instead of acknowledging your actions, their deflective behavior actually shows that they do not care about your feelings and your words for actions or not being taken into consideration.

How are family members involved in patient care?

The health and welfare of family caregivers has been linked to the health of persons receiving care. In fact, many family members are so connected to the patient and her or his compromised medical state that they can feel—perhaps experience—fear, depression, anger, and other feelings experienced by the patient (van Servellen, 2009).

When does a family member act as a caregiver?

When an elder or disabled individual is no longer able to care for themselves and a family member steps up to act as a caregiver, this is a significant sacrifice. Often, these caregivers give up a job and any employment benefits that go along with it.

Can a family really not care about you?

It seems unfathomable to some that any family could simply not care about one of its members. The reality is, families who don’t care for each other are ultra-common. If you’re a candidate for the black sheep journal, you’ll find redemption in these words.