Are you a caregiver?

You might already be one. Here’s what that can look like.

A caregiver is anyone who helps another person manage their health, daily needs, or overall well-being—often without pay. You might be a caregiver if you:

  • Help a family member, partner, friend, or neighbor with everyday tasks

  • Coordinate or attend medical appointments

  • Manage medications or health-related needs

  • Provide emotional support, check-ins, or advocacy

  • Assist with household responsibilities or transportation

  • Step in regularly because someone relies on you

If you see yourself in any of these roles, you can identify as a family caregiver—even if you’ve never used that term before. Caregiving looks different for everyone, but every caregiver plays a vital role and deserves recognition and support.

The Caregiver’s Role

Caring for someone with COVID or Long-COVID brings a mix of urgent and ongoing challenges. For those with active COVID, caregivers often provide critical support in monitoring symptoms, managing isolation, and ensuring access to medical care if conditions worsen. For those with Long-COVID, caregiving can become a longer journey of navigating unpredictable symptoms like fatigue, brain fog, and breathing difficulties—all while adapting to changing health needs. The uncertainty of recovery, coupled with the stress of protecting one’s own health, makes caregiver support essential. Caregivers play a vital role in helping their loved one regain quality of life while also safeguarding their own well-being.

covid

Top 3 Things Caregivers Should Know

Monitor Symptoms Closely

COVID can worsen quickly. Caregivers should know red flag symptoms (like trouble breathing, chest pain, or confusion) and seek medical attention promptly.

Support Daily Living with Long-COVID

Ongoing symptoms may affect energy, memory, or mobility. Caregivers can help by pacing activities, simplifying routines, and encouraging rest.

Protect Your Own Health

Caregivers must practice safety measures (masking, hygiene, ventilation) when needed and recognize the emotional toll. Seeking respite and support networks helps maintain both physical and mental health.

Caregiving Resources

Partner Resources

  • Long-COVID Alliance:

    > CDC: Caring for People with Post-COVID Conditions — This CDC resource outlines best practices for supporting individuals experiencing post-COVID conditions, including symptom management and care coordination. It emphasizes a patient-centered approach that addresses both physical and emotional needs during recovery.

    > Post-COVID Recovery: Resources for Patients — This page compiles educational materials, support networks, and self-management tools to help individuals navigate long COVID recovery. It focuses on empowering patients with information to manage symptoms and connect with appropriate care.

    > Directory of COVID-competent Providers — A directory that helps individuals find healthcare providers experienced in diagnosing and treating long COVID. It serves as a trusted tool for patients seeking knowledgeable, compassionate, and evidence-based care.

Caregiver Action Network

Explore Your Community Support Options

Personalized Guidance from Caregiving Experts

Personalized Guidance from Caregiving Experts

Available Monday-Friday from 8am – 7pm ET, our experts are ready with the personalized support, guidance, and assistance you need and deserve–for as long as you need it.

(855) 227-3640

24/7 Access to Hundreds of Helpful Resources

24/7 Access to Hundreds of Helpful Resources

The National Caregiver Help Desk App, powered by Carallel, is full of bite-sized resources crafted to help you build skills, validate what you’re feeling, and help you get stuff done.

Use Access Code: CAN

Connection & Community with Other Caregivers

Expert-Led Virtual Fireside Chats

These 30-minute virtual fireside chats address the complex and often difficult topics encountered by caregivers. Sessions are led by Matt Perrin, Carallel’s Director of Caregiver Engagement, and Sheila Schultz, a Carallel Care Advocate.

Community with Other Caregivers

Community With Other Caregivers

Through CAN, Carallel Support Groups give you a place to ask questions, feel understood, and build confidence in your caregiving journey. Access is simple and available when you need it.

Certified Listeners

Connect with Certified Listeners

Looking for someone who really gets it? Get matched with trained listeners who share your lived experience—whether that’s caring for someone with Alzheimer’s, cancer, or another chronic condition.

Facebook Support Group for Caregivers

Online Support Group on Facebook

Join our caregiver community on Facebook to connect with thousands of peers in a welcoming, supportive space.
Ask questions, share experiences, and receive advice any time of day.

We’re meeting caregivers where they are—giving you choices for how you want to connect, whether through expert advice, peer-to-peer empathy, or live support groups.