Never forget that what you do is worthwhile, in all sorts of ways. According to an AARP Public Policy Institute report, about 40 million family caregivers provided 37 billion hours of care for parents, spouses, partners and other adult loved ones worth an estimated $470 billion in 2013, up from $450 billion in 2009. How much is $470 billion? It’s nearly as much as the total sales of the world’s largest companies, including Walmart ($485.9 billion for the fiscal year ending Jan. 31, 2017).

Of course everyone wants to know how your dad’s surgery went, but it can be exhausting trying to inform people individually over the phone or by email. Sites such as CaringBridge allow you to send messages to everyone all at once. Other similar sites include PostHope and MyLifeLine.org.

The Family Caregiver Alliance has a family care navigator tool to help you locate resources, including support groups near you, and also gives you the ability to join an online caregiver group. You can chat online with other caregivers in the same situation on AARP’s website, too. Services and support in your area can also be found through Eldercare Locator, a public service of the U.S. Administration on Aging. In addition, the Alzheimer’s Association and CancerCare websites offer information on support groups. The Well Spouse Association is another good source if you need help connecting with other caregivers.

Seek out simple tools like calendars and to-do lists that can help you prioritize your responsibilities. Work with your loved one to create an inventory of where important items are kept. It’s essential to know the location of certain documents: Social Security cards, marriage and birth certificates, a will or trust, the deed to the house, and insurance and bank account records. Staying organized will give you peace of mind and leave you better prepared down the road.