Easing the Burden on Family Caregivers

Montana voters 45 and older overwhelmingly believe family caregivers should have the support services they need to take a break or keep a job. In a recent AARP survey, nearly 8 in 10 respondents said that is extremely or very important. Ninety percent of those who are caregivers said their role is critical to their loved one’s independence, and more than half said they have experienced stress.

The survey findings reveal the challenges facing the state’s 118,000 family caregivers, as a legislative committee considers ways to help them.

Tim Summers, AARP state director, said caregivers form a silent army who provide “the first line of defense against older Montanans being forced from their homes and into nursing homes or hospitals.”

For more information or to get involved in this issue, email AARP Montana at mtaarp@aarp.org or call 866-295-7278 toll-free.