Governor Moore proclaims November as National Family Caregivers Month in Maryland

Governor Wes Moore has officially proclaimed November as National Family Caregivers Month in Maryland, recognizing the service and sacrifice of Marylanders who are caring for their loved ones independently at home, where they want to be.

Maryland’s 760,000 family caregivers provide a combined 710 million hours of care every year, adding up to $12.5 billion in unpaid labor annually. Family caregivers spend these countless hours managing medications, preparing meals, helping with bathing and dressing and so much more. The financial, physical and emotional toll is great on them.

The proclamation, signed by Governor Moore, Lt. Governor Miller, and Secretary of Labor Lee, cites the following:

• “More than 730,000 family caregivers across our state are helping older parents, spouses and other loved ones live independently in their homes; and
• “Family caregivers help their loved ones with everything from managing medications and medical care, meal preparation and feeding, bathing and dressing, chores, finances, grocery shopping, transportation and more; and
• “Many family caregivers work full or part-time at paying jobs, and many cut back their hours or quit their jobs entirely to make sure their loved one receives the care they need; and
• “Maryland's family caregivers are among 48 million Americans nationwide who are being recognized in November, National Family Caregivers Month.”

The average family caregiver spends more than $7,000 per year on out of pocket expenses taking care of family members and AARP Maryland is advocating for financial support for them,” said AARP Maryland State Director Hank Greenberg. “Chances are if you are not a family caregiver, you know someone who is. Take time this month to thank one in your life for their time and dedication.”

I Am a Caregiver
AARP is launching a nationwide movement, I Am A Caregiver. To many lawmakers, America’s millions of caregivers are invisible. Yet, these family caregivers hold up a broken long-term care system. Which is why AARP is looking for your help; we are starting a movement of family caregivers to show lawmakers that we are a powerful constituency who need support now.

Raise your hand and join the fight at aarp.org/iamacaregiver.

Fighting for Caregivers in Maryland
AARP is calling on Congress and state legislatures to pass legislation that will help family caregiver save time and money, and provide more support.

In Maryland, our top legislative priorities include financial relief options for caregivers, such as tax credits or reimbursement programs to offset the costs of caring for loved ones at home.

Join us in these efforts by signing up to receive state advocacy updates HERE.

Resources for Family Caregivers
AARP offers free resources to help those caring for loved ones to help them navigate their role as a caregiver and provide more support.

• Maryland State Resource Guide: A resource guide tailored specifically to your home state to provide you with resources to meet you where you are.
• Caregiving Resources: Resources on caregiver life balance, financial and legal issues, care at home, health and more.
• 10 Tips for Family Caregivers: A list of ten tips to get started on your caregiving journey.
• Financial Workbook for Caregivers: A guide focused on health, housing and money management for caregivers.
• AARP Caregiving Community: An AARP online community where caregivers can talk with other caregivers and get answers from experts in the community.
• AARP Facebook Group: A place to connect, share practical tips, offer support, and discuss family caregiving experiences.
• AARP Caregiving Support Line: A toll free-family caregiving line for those taking care of their loved ones.

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