Explaining a gap after caregiving or layoff after 8 years as a marketing coordinator

I have been out of work for 6 months and worry about the gap. I worked as a marketing coordinator before this. I have done some volunteering and a course during that time. Did anyone get past it?

A short, honest line such as 'family caregiving' is enough for most employers. They mostly want to know you are ready now.

I was hired after a 6-month gap. The manager said the skills test mattered more than the dates.