Caregiving doesn’t pause—and neither does the importance of having the right support. Caregiver Action Network (CAN) is here year-round to help you find trusted information, supportive communities, and practical tools that make each day a little more manageable. Whether you’re caring for a loved one today, tomorrow, or any time of year, connection and support can make all the difference.

The Caregiver’s Role

Caring for someone with an intellectual or developmental disability (I/DD) involves long-term commitment, advocacy, and adaptation. Caregivers often support educational needs, life skills, medical or behavioral challenges, transition to adulthood, and evolving independence. Because the needs and supports change across the lifespan, caregivers benefit from resources that address planning, inclusion, self-advocacy, and caregiver well-being.

Intellectual & Developmental Disabilities (I/DD)

Top 3 Things Caregivers Should Know

Transitions Are Major Inflection Points

Moving from childhood to adolescence, from school to adult services, or from parental care to independent living brings shifts in rights, supports, funding, and expectations. Having a plan for transition helps smooth those changes.

Advocacy & Systems Navigation Are Constant

You’ll often be your loved one’s voice—securing accommodations in education, accessing waiver or Medicaid services, coordinating therapy, or navigating policies. Understanding legal rights, processes, and community systems is essential.

Caregivers Need Their Own Support & Peer Community

The emotional, logistical, and financial demands can be intense and sustained over decades. Having peer support, respite strategies, self-care, and access to knowledge networks is critical to avoid burnout and maintain your resilience.

Caregiving Resources

Partner Resources

Caregiver Action Network

  • National Caregiver Help Desk — Free 1:1 Support

  • Family Caregiver Toolbox — Practical Resources for Caregivers

  • Basics of Caregiving — Foundational, valuable knowledge in contexts where caregiving is lifelong and evolving (e.g., daily living, planning, adaptation).

  • Sibling Caregivers — Siblings play a vital role in supporting their sister or brother with an intellectual or developmental disability. This resource pinpoints some hardships that sibling caregivers face while also celebrating the unique relationship that can be strengthened.

  • Peer Support — Kindly Human is a free, on-demand caregiver resource that connects you to real people who have walked a similar path. Whether you’re juggling family responsibilities, coping with overwhelming stress, or seeking support for a loved one, Kindly Human offers a personalized approach to ensure you always feel heard and understood.

This resource was developed with support from The Arc and Angelman Syndrome Foundation.