Political Quotes

“long-term care is an issue that continues to tug at Congress and this country. In 1997 close to $117 billion was spent on long-term care--almost 12 percent of total U.S. health care expenditures. And it is estimated that those in need of long-term care will double by 2025, up from the 9 million using these vital services today. The appropriate care for an individual should be an issue that is made by that individual and their loved ones. For many people, remaining at home is their choice. It allows them to remain with their loved ones in familiar surroundings. But we all know the truth is that in many cases it comes down to the financial realities of the family. We need to do more to assist these people and their families so that they really do have a choice. Toward that end I am introducing a bill that provides a tax credit for families caring for a relative who suffers from Alzheimer's disease. When I first came to Congress over 20 years ago, not a single piece of legislation devoted to Alzheimer's disease had even been introduced. We have come a long way since then, as today 'Alzheimer's' is a household word. It is also the most expensive uninsured illness in America. Alzheimer's treatment is estimated to cost $100 billion each year. And according to the Alzheimer's Association it costs businesses in this country more than $33 billion a year due to caregiver absenteeism.”