Every November, National Caregivers Month offers an opportunity to recognize and celebrate the millions of people who care for others in times of need. At Vaya Health, we take this time to honor the dedication, compassion, and resilience of caregivers — those who provide consistent, loving support to individuals facing health challenges, especially older adults navigating aging and chronic conditions.
Caregivers do more than help with daily routines. They offer comfort, manage medications, provide emotional support, and help coordinate care — all while juggling their own responsibilities. Their role is deeply personal and often demanding, filled with small but powerful moments of connection that keep families and communities strong.
The need for caregiver support continues to grow. According to a 2024 report by the Rosalynn Carter Institute for Caregivers, nearly 70% of caregivers are working while providing care, and more than half report feeling overwhelmed by their responsibilities. These numbers show just how vital it is to ensure caregivers are seen, valued, and supported.
Supporting caregivers through HEART
To better reflect its purpose and expand its reach, Vaya Health has rebranded its former Geriatric Adult Specialty Team (GAST) to the Health Education and Aging Resource Team (HEART). While the name has changed, the mission remains the same: to provide free, high-quality training and education to caregivers, professionals, and organizations that support the aging population.
HEART’s trainings — delivered both in person and online — cover topics such as behavioral health in older adults, dementia care, substance use, and managing emotional or behavioral changes. These sessions are designed not only to equip caregivers with practical skills, but also to offer reassurance and connection in what can be an isolating role. All trainings are approved for continuing education credit by the N.C. Division of Health Service Regulation.
“Our mission is to empower caregivers with the knowledge, tools, and support they need — not just to care for others, but to care for themselves,” said Terry Spencer, manager of the HEART team at Vaya Health. “This month, and every month, we honor caregivers for their compassion, strength, and perseverance.”
Making an impact, even through challenges
Despite the significant disruptions caused by the traumatic impact of Hurricane Helene and the internal efforts required for the statewide rebranding initiative, the HEART team remained steadfast in its outreach and service delivery.
During fiscal year 2024–2025, HEART provided:
- 2,025.25 hours of education
- 1,956 presentations
- 10,764 individuals
- Outreach to 3,005 agencies and organizations
These numbers reflect the team’s resilience and commitment to keeping caregivers informed and supported — even during periods of recovery and transition.
Caregiving is a community effort
At Vaya, we understand that caregivers are the foundation of long-term care in this country. They are parents, partners, friends, and neighbors — and often, they serve without formal training, financial compensation, or public recognition. Many are navigating stress, grief, and fatigue, even as they continue to show up day after day for the people they love.
That’s why we remain committed to helping caregivers access the knowledge, skills, and emotional support they need. Through programs like HEART, we are creating a network of education and empathy — so caregivers never feel like they’re doing it alone.
On this National Caregivers Month, we invite you to reach out to a caregiver in your life. Offer your thanks. Offer a hand. And remember that behind every person receiving care, there’s someone giving it — with heart.
For more information about Vaya’s HEART services or to access educational resources, visit Education and Training | Vaya Health.
