What Are the Caregiver’s Rights?
Quick Facts
- Caregivers deserve support, too.
- Help may be available through family, friends and community groups.
- Connecting with other caregivers can provide encouragement, information and support.
Caring for someone after a heart or stroke event can be challenging. Caregiving duties can make it hard to find the time and energy for your own needs.
As a caregiver, your health and well-being matter, too. These caregiver rights can help remind you to care for yourself. It’s important to recognize that many of the feelings and challenges you may have are a normal part of caregiving.
I have the right to:
- Take care of myself by eating well, exercising and getting enough rest. Caring for myself helps me stay healthy and support my loved one.
- Ask for and accept help from others. I know my limits and do not have to do everything on my own.
- Use caregiving resources in my community so I can take time for myself when needed.
- Make time for other parts of my life. Caring for my loved one is important, but my own needs, interests and relationships matter, too.
- Feel a range of emotions, including anger, sadness and frustration at times.
- Set healthy boundaries and take care of my own emotional well-being.
- Be treated with kindness, respect and understanding.
- Feel proud of the care and support I provide.
- Build a life that supports my own future and well-being.
How can I use these caregiver rights?
Keep these caregiver rights where you and your loved one can see them. Add other rights that are important to you.
Sharing this list with your loved one can help start conversations about your needs and make it easier to ask for support.
Where can I find support?
Support may come from your family, friends, neighbors or your religious community. These people may be able to help with daily tasks and provide emotional support.
You can also find help through nonprofit groups and community resources. Here are three places to get support:
American Heart Association Support Network
The Support Network is a free, trusted online community where heart and stroke patients, survivors and caregivers connect, share and listen. Members can join discussions, take part in virtual support groups and read stories from others with similar experiences.
Family Caregiver Alliance
caregiver.org(link opens in new window)
The Family Caregiver Alliance provides information, education and support for family caregivers. Its Services by State tool can help you find services and resources in your state.
Caregiver Action Network
caregiveraction.org(link opens in new window)
The Caregiver Action Network offers education, peer support and resources to family caregivers across the country for no cost.
