(BPT) - Did you know nearly 1 in 4 American adults is a family caregiver? And according to a new study from the National Alliance for Caregiving and AARP, one-third of all caregivers are also members of the "sandwich generation" - caring for an adult and a child under 18 at the same time. Family caregivers provide help with daily activities, transportation, advocating during medical appointments, companionship and much more.

Especially for those caring for a parent with dementia or Alzheimer's, the challenges are great - as are the rewards. A recent National Day of Joy survey by Talker Research on behalf of Comfort Keepers, market-leading provider of in-home care for adults, reveals nearly 3 in 4 caregivers (74%) find the role to be one of the most rewarding of their lives, and nearly all (91%) say it deepens their bonds with the senior in their care.

"Caregiving for an older loved one is a role most of us will play, and the connection you make with your loved one can be incredibly meaningful," said Sherri Snelling, gerontologist and Comfort Keepers spokesperson. "The key is to remember to care for yourself, and focus on the joyful moments."

To help provide care for your loved one with compassion and resilience, keep these approaches in mind.

You don't have to go it alone

Especially for caregivers who want to ensure everything is done right, it's easy to fall into the trap of doing everything yourself.

"I didn't trust other people to give my father care or understand him like I did," said Joni. "But that led to exhaustion, so I couldn't be my best when we were together."

By assembling a care team, you can consistently provide the assistance your loved one needs. This may include family members, neighbors, friends, community groups and other resources. Ask your loved one's health care provider about resources in your area.

Another way to ensure extra support is through Comfort Keepers, which employs thousands of caregivers nationwide who deliver joy through interactive caregiving by continually communicating with, involving and engaging with seniors in everyday tasks and activities, providing trusted respite care when you need it.

Self-care isn't selfish

While your loved one relies on you, it's crucial to take care of yourself. Find ways to support your own well-being, including getting restorative sleep, eating well and even just a few minutes of walking but most importantly find time to simply do things you love.

"When I stopped doing things that made me happy, so I could care for my mom, I got easily irritated by little annoyances that might not have bothered me before," added Bryan. "After I resumed my hobbies just once a week, I felt more positive. I needed to fill my cup so I could have the physical and mental strength to give to her."

Self-care takes many forms, so it's vital to learn what's important for you. Ask yourself what you need to bring your best self to caregiving. This is even more important when you're in the "sandwich generation" with kids at home.

A Comfort Keepers caregiver can also give you peace of mind that your loved one is in good hands, opening opportunities to care for yourself and others in your family who may need you.

Find moments of joy and gratitude

As you spend time caring for your loved one, notice those moments when you laugh together, share a special memory or just enjoy a good day when the sun is shining.

"Some days feel ordinary, then something breaks through: My dad tells a story I've never heard before, or smiles when the family's cat hops on his lap," said Saudia. "Those are the moments I'll remember."

Caregiving for a family member involves a commitment that demonstrates love and a sense of belonging that's fundamental to being human.

"Many caregivers call caregiving a blessing," said Snelling. "When people care for aging loved ones, they also get something back - deep emotional rewards, personal growth and joy."

Caring for loved ones with dementia or Alzheimer's

Comfort Keepers understands the struggles families face caring for a senior with Alzheimer's disease or dementia, especially when you're helping them live safely at home. Choosing Comfort Keepers, families receive support including:

• Specially trained caregivers
• Family education to better understand dementia
• Tasks built into their care plan and geared to each senior's interests to engage them physically, mentally and emotionally
• In-home services like personal care, companionship, medication reminders and family respite care
• SafetyChoice^® in-home safety technologies including medical alert systems and motion detectors

Learn more about caring for your loved one at ComfortKeepers.com.