Political Quotes

“Madam Chair, I yield myself such time as I may consume. Madam Chair, my amendment supports the 43 million family caregivers nationwide who provide long-term services to their aging or disabled loved ones. These individuals provide the vast majority of long-term care in our country. In fact, AARP, if you had to put a dollar figure on it, has estimated that family caregivers provide some $470 billion a year in uncompensated care. Respite care services provide short-term relief for these family caregivers and is one of the most frequently requested services. Let's face it, if a caregiver can't take care of their own health or get a break and look out for their well-being, they certainly will have a very hard time providing the very best care for their loved ones in need. Access to respite care has been shown to improve caregiver health and well-being, promote family stability, and avoid or delay the need for admission to costly institutional settings, resulting in significant savings for both the healthcare system and taxpayers. The Lifespan Respite Care Program is the only Federal effort that provides respite care services regardless of age or disability. The Lifespan Respite Care Program is often the only open door for families affected by conditions with an earlier onset, like multiple sclerosis, since other Federal programs are focused on children or seniors.…”