Massachusetts Lawmakers Take Historic Step to Support Family Caregivers

This November, during National Family Caregivers Month, Massachusetts lawmakers made history by passing House Bill No. 4706, An Act to Improve Massachusetts Home Care which includes the establishment of the Commonwealth’s first-ever Caregiver Commission.

AARP Massachusetts is proud to thank the Massachusetts House of Representatives for passing this landmark legislation. We are especially grateful to Chair Thomas Stanley and Representative Michael Kushmerek for their leadership and dedication to the 1.4 million family caregivers across the Commonwealth.

Family caregivers are the unsung heroes of our health care system. They provide hands-on care, emotional support, and financial assistance to loved ones—often while juggling jobs and other responsibilities. Many spend more than 20 hours a week providing care and thousands of dollars out of pocket each year.

“This is a landmark moment for Massachusetts,” said Jennifer Benson, State Director of AARP Massachusetts. “For the first time, we have a commission solely focused on the needs of family caregivers. This is step one, and we look forward to working with the commission to develop meaningful outcomes that help caregivers save time, money, and access the support they need.”

The Caregiver Commission will bring together experts, stakeholders, and caregivers themselves to explore solutions that strengthen caregiving infrastructure and improve quality of life for families. It’s a long-overdue recognition of the vital role caregivers play in keeping loved ones safe, healthy, and at home; where they want to be.

AARP Massachusetts will continue to advocate for policies that empower people to choose how they live as they age—and ensure caregivers are never left behind. Read the letter AARP sent to lawmakers urging the passage of the bill. AARP Letter - HB4706 An Act to Improve Massachusetts Home Care 110525 (003).pdf

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