This Is What a Caregiver Looks Like

Not everyone who gives care is a caregiver.

That may sound odd, but stick with me

Many assume that working in healthcare, babysitting grandkids, or checking on aging parents makes someone a caregiver. Those are all important—but family caregiving is different.

There’s usually no training, no paycheck, and no clock-out time. No one gives you a manual—just a life-altering responsibility you step into because love demands it.

Here’s how I define it:

A family caregiver is someone who voluntarily places themselves between a chronically impaired loved one and even worse disaster.

That phrase—chronically impaired—is key.
This isn’t a temporary setback. The condition may not improve. The burden doesn’t lift.

That impairment could be from disease, disability, age, mental illness, developmental challenges, or addiction.

Where there’s chronic impairment, a caregiver is usually nearby—overwhelmed, weary, and often overlooked.

Many don’t even realize it.
They say, “I’m just helping my husband,” or “This is just what you do for family.”

If that’s you, let me say it plainly:
You’re a caregiver.

And here’s the deal:

If you love someone, you’ll probably be one.
If you live long enough, you’ll need one.

If this describes you, you’re why I write.
This column, my books, my show—they exist because the journey’s hard enough.
But I can help.

Keep reading.

“We can’t direct the wind, but we can adjust the sails.”
—Dolly Parton

Peter Rosenberger hosts the nationally syndicated radio program, Hope for the Caregiver. His new book, A Caregiver’s Companion: Scriptures, Hymns, and 40 Years of Insights for Life’s Toughest Role, releases August 2025. PeterRosenberger.com