THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF PENNSYLVANIA

SENATE RESOLUTION

INTRODUCED BY TOMLINSON, DECEMBER 15, 2009

INTRODUCED AND ADOPTED, DECEMBER 15, 2009  

A RESOLUTION

Recognizing the month of November 2009 as "National Family

Caregiver Month" in Pennsylvania and commending the service

and dedication family caregivers provide to older adult

family members and friends.

WHEREAS, "National Family Caregiver Month" is recognized to

draw attention to the many challenges facing family caregivers,

to advocate for stronger public policy to address family

caregiving issues and to raise awareness about community

programs that support family caregivers; and

WHEREAS, An estimated 54 million Americans provide care for

adult family members and friends with disabling conditions or

illnesses according to Contact Greater Philadelphia and Bucks

County Children of Aging Parents; and

WHEREAS, Seventy-eight percent of all adults receiving long-

term care at home rely exclusively on family and friends to

provide assistance; and

WHEREAS, Family caregivers provide a vast array of nursing,

social, emotional and financial services on a daily basis for

years or possibly even a lifetime; and

WHEREAS, Family involvement is critical to maintain the

independence of older adults who need assistance with activities

of daily living; and

WHEREAS, Primary caregivers who provide continuous care in

the home often gain a great deal of personal satisfaction, but

they can also experience physical, psychological and financial

stress; therefore be it

RESOLVED, That the Senate recognize the month of November

2009 as "National Family Caregiver Month" in Pennsylvania and

commend the service and dedication of this Commonwealth's family

caregivers who improve the lives of many older Pennsylvanians.