How do I handle a long gap on my résumé? (update)

I have been out of work for 9 months and worry about the gap. There are 16 people counting on me, so I am trying to be careful. I am not sure how much to explain. 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.

Thanks for writing this out. I went through something close to it 9 months ago, and it settled down once I kept a simple log of every call and form.