Caregiving

By Tim Summers

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.

Personal stories are a powerful way to influence lawmakers and decision-makers on important issues.

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.

Helena, Mont., Jan 11, 2016 — Studies have shown that Americans aren’t saving enough for the future, and the risk of insufficient funds in retirement is especially high for Montana’s women. On average, women live longer, earn less, and spend more time out of the workforce caring for family than do men.

November marks National Family Caregivers Month, a time to recognize the 40 million Americans – nearly 118,000 from Montana – who help older parents, spouses, and other loved ones live independently at home, where they want to be. The unpaid care they provide – managing medications, cooking meals, driving to appointments, performing complex medical tasks and more – is valued at about $1.4 billion in Montana alone.

Helena, Mont., Nov. 20, 2016 — Today AARP Montana released findings of a statewide survey highlighting Montana family caregiver experiences, challenges and needs. The findings were announced during a legislative field hearing of the Children, Families, Health and Human Services Interim Committee which convened in Billings. The survey recognizes and supports the important role an estimated 118,000 Montanans serve as family caregivers. Their labor of love makes it possible for older parents, spouses and other loved ones to live independently at home.

Montana Family Caregivers Provide $1.4 Billion In Unpaid Care According to AARP Study

In conjunction with the White House’s 2015 Conference on Aging, AARP Montana is hosting a Conference Watch Party and Listening Session in Helena to listen, learn, dialogue, and share what is important for people 50-plus. The 2015 Conference aims to embrace the transformative demographic shift occurring in the United States and recognize the possibilities of aging, and will be live streamed. Helena residents will be able to field questions into the conference through social media. Participants will also discuss and share the needs of people 50-plus in Helena and around Montana.

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