How do I handle a long gap on my résumé? - 8 months and counting

I have been out of work for 8 months and worry about the gap. There are 10 people counting on me, so I am trying to be careful. I am not sure how much to explain.

I listed the volunteering and course under the same dates and kept the explanation to a sentence in the cover letter.

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