How do I handle a long gap on my résumé?

I have been out of work for 8 months and worry about the gap. I would rather hear the honest version than the polite one. I have done some volunteering and a course during that time. What do you say in interviews?

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

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