Caregivers' Stories Bolster Advocacy

Every family caregiver has a story to tell, and AARP Montana wants to hear them. These personal stories can strengthen testimony as AARP pursues legislative support for caregivers.

“We are fighting for common-sense solutions to support these unsung heroes,” said Tim Summers, AARP state director. “Personal stories are powerful and can influence lawmakers and other decision-makers.”

AARP advocates will urge lawmakers to pass the Montana Caregiver Act during the legislative session that begins in January. The proposed bill would provide training and support for family caregivers when a loved one comes home from a hospital stay.

About 118,000 Montanans serve as family caregivers. Their unpaid services, valued at more than $1.4 billion a year, help their loved ones continue to live at home and avoid costly nursing home care. Go to iheartcaregivers.org to share your caregiving story.