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

Paralysis, due to spinal cord injury, stroke, neurological conditions, or other causes, presents unique challenges involving mobility, independence, prevention of secondary complications (pressure ulcers, respiratory issues, etc.), and emotional adaptation. Caregivers often need to coordinate medical care, assist with movement or transfers, adapt the home environment, support rehabilitation, and provide emotional resilience. Because paralysis often leads to lifelong change, caregivers should equip themselves with resources, peer support, and planning tools to maintain quality of life for both the person and themselves.

paralysis

Top 3 Things Caregivers Should Know

Mobility & Safety Adaptations Are Foundational

How transfers, positioning, wheelchair use, home access, and assistive devices are managed deeply influences the person’s independence, skin health, and risk of injury. Learning safe techniques and making the environment accessible is critical.

Secondary Health Risks Cannot Be Overlooked

People with paralysis are at higher risk for complications like pressure sores, respiratory infections, urinary tract issues, spasticity, and circulatory problems. Vigilant preventive care and monitoring (skin checks, repositioning, respiratory care) are part of the caregiving role.

Emotional, Social & Identity Adjustment Matter Equally

Both the person experiencing paralysis and the caregiver may face grief, changes in roles, altered identity, isolation, and mental health strains. Finding peer support, counseling, and community connection is essential to sustain caregiving.

Featured Resource

Ties That Bind: Caregiver Resiliency in Parent and Child Relationships

Presented by: Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation

In parent-child relationships where one person is living with paralysis, helping one another becomes part of daily life. How do families reframe caregiving as connection, strengthen their bond, and prevent burnout along the way?

Listen in on a conversation on how expanding our definition of caregiving can deepen relationships, as well as practical ways to balance responsibilities, set boundaries, and support one another with care and resilience.

Recorded on February 11, 2026

Caregiving Resources

Partner Resources

  • Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation:

    > Paralysis Resource Guide — A free, comprehensive guide (hundreds of pages) covering medical, rehabilitation, assistive technology, emotional health, peer support, and daily living topics for those living with paralysis and their caregivers.> Support for Caregivers — This section offers curated resources, downloadable materials, and guidance specifically for caregivers of those with paralysis.

    > Virtual Support Group (for caregivers and family members) — Free online groups where caregivers and family members connect, share, and gain guidance.

    > Resources in Your Area | Community Directory — A locator for regional or local organizations, services, peer networks, and support connected to spinal cord injury and paralysis.

    > Free Resources & Downloads for Caregivers — A repository of fact sheets, educational booklets, wallet cards, videos, and patient education materials standard for those living with paralysis and their caregivers.

Caregiver Action Network