She cares for her aging parents full time. That requires taking care of herself, too

Dawnita Brown gives her mother, Joan Cain, water to help swallow pills after breakfast. Brown is the primary caregiver to her mother and father, who live with her in Baltimore.

Dawnita Brown left her job to become a caregiver for her parents. Brown says it's a gift to care for her parents, but it can also be difficult. That's why respite is an important part of her life.

(Image credit: Claire Harbage)