It’s Boxing Day! + 22 Social Media Accounts that Support Caregivers

Celebrated on December 26th, Boxing Day is a holiday traditionally observed in the United Kingdom and other countries that were part of the British Empire. It originated as a day when tradespeople would receive gifts, known as a "Christmas box," from their bosses or employers. These gifts were a way to show appreciation for their hard work throughout the year.

Boxing Day is also a time for family and friends to gather, often for a meal, using up leftovers from Christmas Day feasts. It's a public holiday in many countries, including the UK, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand, giving people a chance to relax and enjoy the festive season. This special day brings extra importance to my family, as this was the day my parents met, over 53 years ago and this is also the first Boxing Day without my Dad. 

While this season is particularly hard for my family, I want to put a positive spin on it and give praise to the caregiving community that New Caregiver has had the immense opportunity to connect with, follow, and learn from, so whether you’re on Instagram, Facebook or LinkedIn, here are some people and organizations that you can follow on social media for caregiving inspiration, ideas, and support.

Individuals:

1. Ai-jen Poo (@aijenp): Ai-jen is a nationally recognized expert on older adult and family care, the future of work, gender equality and immigration.

2. Aisha Adkins, MPA, CNP (@aisha.adkins): Serves as the Constituency Engagement Manager for Caring Across Generations where she organizes family caregivers, older adults, and disabled people to collectively transform the way care is given, received, and viewed in the U.S.

3. Regina Jenkins (@caregivercoach): A Private nurse/ life coach specializing in Sacred Goodbyes. Online coaching & in-home care.

4. Susanne White (@caregiverwarrior): Susanne created Caregiver Warrior, a resource hub, website, blog, and interactive place for those who take care of others to find supportive ways to take care of themselves.

5. Carol Bradley Bursack (@mindingourelders): An author and columnist sharing experiences and insights into eldercare and caregiving.

6. Carrie Aalberts (@dementiadarling): Master of Science focused in Gerontology (study of aging) and is a Certified Dementia Practitioner.

7. Dr. Barry Jacobs : A clinical psychologist specializing in family caregiving, sharing professional advice and support.

8. Alma Valencia (@mom_has_dementia): Caring for her Mom living with Frontotemporal Dementia (FTD).

9. Liz O'Donnell (@workingdaughter): An advocate for working women who are caregivers, sharing resources and support.

10. Teepa Snow (@teepasnow_pac): A dementia and Alzheimer's care expert sharing insights and techniques for caregiving.

11. Better Health While Aging: Geriatrician Dr. Leslie Kernisan believes it shouldn’t be so hard for older adults and their families to navigate late-life challenges so she created online resources filled with educational content.

Organizations:

1. Art Against Ageism (@art_against_ageism): Exposing ageism & advancing age positivity by amplifying & creating artistic endeavors that tackle ageism.

2. AARP (@aarp): Focuses on issues affecting older adults, including caregiving.

3. Alzheimer's Association (@alzassociation): Provides support and information for caregivers of people living with Alzheimer's and dementia.

4. Caregiver Action Network Community: Offers education, peer support, and resources for caregivers.

5. DailyCaring: Shares practical tips and advice for caring for older adults.

6. HFC (@wearehfc): Provides support for families affected by Alzheimer's disease.

7. Leeza's Care Connection (@leezascareconnection): Offers support and resources for family caregivers.

8. Mind What Matters (@mindwhatmattersnonprofit): A 501c3 nonprofit supporting family caregivers of those living with Alzheimer’s and other related dementias.

9. The Caregiver Space (@thecaregiverspace): A community offering support and resources for caregivers.

10. Well Spouse Association: Offers support for spousal caregivers.

11. Fight2Remember: Is committed to providing compassionate and comprehensive care through connection.

Have we missed anyone? Please share in the comments below and we will be happy to connect and engage with them! 

Whether you are a new caregiver or seasoned pro, community can be so important this time of year. We love this article from AARP on the comforts of creating new holiday rituals together.