By Marvell Adams Jr., CEO, Caregiver Action Network & Generations United Board Member
and Kristen Kiefer, Executive Director, Generations United

As leaders in the caregiving and intergenerational movements, we know that connection is the current that powers compassion.

Connection Is Care

Every November, we celebrate National Family Caregivers Month – a time to honor more than 63 million Americans who provide unpaid care to family, friends, and neighbors. This year’s theme, led by the Caregiver Action Network (CAN), is “Plug-in to Care.” It’s a reminder that caregiving doesn’t happen in isolation – it thrives when caregivers are connected to support, recognition, and community.

The Power of Connection

Caregiving is love in action. Yet, for many, it also brings stress, exhaustion, and isolation. Families often navigate these roles without sufficient support. “Plug-in to Care” calls us to change that – to ensure caregivers are plugged into resources, respite, mental health support, and workplace flexibility.

From Age Silos to Age Solidarity

When we design workplaces, communities, and policies that include all ages, we don’t just make life easier for caregivers – we strengthen our collective well-being. The future of caregiving depends on how well we connect across generations. The more we bridge those divides – age, income, culture, or technology – the stronger our collective care becomes.

“When we care across generations, we create communities where everyone belongs and everyone thrives.”

How You Can Plug In

• Plug into yourself. Replenish your energy. Self-care is community care.
• Plug into community. Join caregiver networks, attend CAN events, or connect with grandfamily support groups.
• Plug into systems. Advocate for workplace flexibility, inclusive benefits, and policies that reflect all forms of caregiving.
• Plug into the future. Support innovations that link generations—from data-driven kinship navigator programs to intergenerational housing and shared sites.