On the recordNovember 21, 2024
Mr. Speaker, I rise today as a co-chair of the Assisting Caregivers Today, or ACT, Caucus, to recognize National Family Caregivers Month. Every November, we bring awareness to the people who dedicate their time, money, and efforts to care for their loved ones. There are roughly 48 million family caregivers in the United States who give around-the-clock care for their family members. On average, caregivers across the country provide nearly $600 billion in unpaid labor annually. In addition to providing these essential services unpaid, more than three in four family caregivers spend their own hard-earned money to take care of their loved ones. These sacrifices often go unrecognized, so it is important that we, as Members of Congress, do what we can to recognize their commitment and ensure they have the resources they need. As the only geriatric nurse-practitioner in Congress, I have seen firsthand the challenges they face and the vital services they provide. I am proud to advocate for caregivers and policies that would make their already difficult situation easier to navigate. Today and every day, we thank those who dedicate their lives to caring for their parents, children, spouses, and other loved ones. ____________________





