How to Share CaringBridge During the Holidays: Supporting Loved Ones on a Health Journey

The holiday season is a joyful time for many, but it can be challenging for those dealing with short-term or chronic illness, surgery recovery, or other health challenges. Not only is it difficult for those experiencing health setbacks, but also for their loved ones who care for them. Providing the right resources for both family caregivers and their loved ones can lighten their load by offering emotional support, practical assistance, and opportunities to connect with their support network. One such resource is CaringBridge, a no-cost, nonprofit health platform designed to help enable easier communication and better coordination of support during a health journey.

Sharing CaringBridge, or any support resources, thoughtfully is key to ensuring your loved one feels supported without feeling overwhelmed. As you gather with friends and family over the holidays, here’s a guide on how to share these helpful resources.

1. Understand the person’s needs and preferences

Before sharing any resource with someone going through a health journey or their family caregiver, take a moment to consider the specific needs of your loved one. Everyone is different, and understanding what type of support might be most valuable is essential. Some may appreciate practical support, like meal deliveries or financial assistance resources, while others may find emotional support more helpful. CaringBridge can meet your loved one where they’re at to deliver the type of support they need.

Tip: If possible, ask the family (or a trusted friend) what kind of support would be most helpful. A quick, thoughtful check-in can ensure you're providing the right type of assistance.

2. Share CaringBridge with sensitivity and empathy

The holiday season is often deeply emotional, and it’s important to approach loved ones with compassion. When sharing CaringBridge, use gentle language and express your intent to support, not impose.

Example: “I thought of you and wanted to share CaringBridge, as it may provide you some comfort and support. No pressure at all— just thought it could be helpful if or when you need it.”

While caring for a loved one through an illness can be incredibly rewarding, it also presents an often overwhelming burden for family caregivers. 75% of CaringBridge pages are set up by a trusted friend or family member helping their loved one recover and heal. CaringBridge can help a family caregiver coordinate instrumental support like meals, transportation, and financial assistance, while also letting them capture their side of the journey and connect with community for much-needed emotional support.

Example for sharing CaringBridge with a caregiver: “Your dedication and compassion to your loved one through their health journey makes such a difference. You’re doing an amazing job. But it’s okay to prioritize your well-being too— and CaringBridge can help. Let me know if you’d like more information.”

“The caregiver’s journey is an endless journey. I would not have been able to remain as positive if it was not for CaringBridge to offload that part of it. It gave me the forum to be positive, to be open, to be vulnerable.” – Huzefa Gandhi, family caregiver and CaringBridge user

3. Choose the right ways to share CaringBridge

Consider the most comfortable communication channel for sharing a resource like CaringBridge. Some people may appreciate a direct email with a link to start their page, while others prefer printed materials or a face-to-face conversation. Here are a few options:

• Email: A gentle, personalized email can include a link to get started on their page, as well as helpful resources and more information on CaringBridge.

• Printed materials: If you’re visiting in person, printed information like brochures may be appropriate.

• Face-to-face conversation: Begin the conversation softly, showing understanding for their situation. Offer a quick overview of the benefits of CaringBridge, but allow them to ask questions or explore it on their own if they choose.

No matter which way you decide to share CaringBridge, let them know you’re available if they have questions or want you to help them set up their page, reinforcing that your support is ongoing with no expectations attached.

4. Recommend other digital tools for comfort and connection

Along with CaringBridge, there are other digital tools that can be valuable for those facing health challenges—especially those who might not be able to connect in person or prefer privacy. Apps that offer meditation or grief support like Headspace or Calm can be comforting to your loved one, and are a wonderful way to give them space to heal.

Tip: Gifting a subscription to one of these services is a wonderful holiday gift for your loved one going through a difficult time.

5. Offer continued support beyond CaringBridge

Sharing CaringBridge is just one way to support a loved one going through a hard time. The holidays can be isolating for loved ones in distress, so even small gestures like sending a holiday card or inviting them to low-key gatherings can make a difference.

• Check in regularly with a simple text or phone call to let them know you're thinking of them.

• Send a card or letter expressing your support, even if you can’t be there in person. Sometimes, just knowing you are there—even from a distance—can be a great comfort.

• Invite them to low-key gatherings or holiday events. Be mindful of their physical or emotional state, but offering an opportunity to participate—without pressure—can help them feel included and cared for.

Tip: When offering support, do so without expecting a response or reciprocation. Small gestures, like offering to pick up groceries or deliver a meal, can mean the world, even if the person never asks.

“It’s just so much when you have to go through these treatments. It’s not just the appointments. It’s having to pick up medication or having to get food. It’s so much logistically and you realize there are a lot of things you might not be able to do yourself anymore. You’re going to need that community of support.” – Sonia Su, CaringBridge partner

Respect Their Space and Autonomy

As much as we want to help, it’s important to respect the personal boundaries of someone navigating a health journey. They may not always want to talk about their health or may feel overwhelmed by too many offers of help. Be mindful of their energy and preferences, and be flexible in how you show up for them.

CaringBridge empowers family caregivers and their loved ones to establish healthy boundaries while sharing updates on their terms. It enables them to decide what information to share, what to keep private, and how to communicate their needs. Caregivers can clearly outline requests—like meals for specific days—and set limits, such as restricting visitors on certain days, all without the stress of managing others’ expectations.

“CaringBridge allows you to process your feelings and share on your own terms. It acts as a buffer, so you don’t have to be receiving that energy in person, but you’re still receiving energy.” – Tia Newcomer, CaringBridge CEO

Tip: Let them know you’re available, but don't push. Sometimes the best way to support someone is by quietly being there when they need it most.

Supporting loved ones facing difficult times during the holiday season requires a thoughtful approach. By sharing CaringBridge thoughtfully, offering additional resources, and continuing to check in with care, you can provide valuable comfort during a time that may otherwise feel isolating or overwhelming. Remember, the most important gift you can offer is your compassion and understanding.

Following these steps can help your loved one feel both supported and empowered, making this holiday season a little brighter for them when they may need it most.

Create a CaringBridge this holiday season to connect, share, and support loved ones on a health journey.