Respite-Care Funding Big Win for Arizona Families
By: Source: AARP.org Date Posted: 2007-07-23 14:22:25.856820-04:00
Arizona has become only one of five states to offer a formalized respite care program under new legislation signed by Governor Janet Napolitano. AARP Arizona assisted Valley Interfaith Project's (VIP) efforts to effect passage of legislation establishing the Lifespan Respite Care Program which appropriates $500,000 for respite care for Arizona families who do not qualify for other state assistance.
"AARP is pleased this legislation passed, and that family caregiving is now being recognized as the foundation for our state and country's long term care system," said Lupe Solis, AARP Arizona Associate State Director. "In Arizona, there are about 570,000 family caregivers, spending more than 20 hours per week providing unpaid care. This legislation provides support to family caregivers who do not qualify for other assistance in their caregiving duties."
The effort to pass legislation addressing this issue began six years ago when Valley Interfaith Project (VIP), a broad-based organization made up of nonprofit organizations, churches, schools and other associations began to raise awareness with elected officials of the important need for assistance and support for family caregivers.
According to AARP research, the typical family caregiver is a 46-year-old woman who is employed and often experiences serious economic losses due to changes in work patterns because of caregiving duties. They are also more likely to have chronic health conditions and medical bill problems.
"This legislation benefits primary caregivers, usually a wife, who just needs to take time for herself, to get away to the market for a couple of hours or to take a break for a day or two," said Bonnie Danowski, VIP Executive Team member.
Respite care is customarily provided in a home, allowing a caregiver to bring their loved one there, usually for a short span of time in order to provide a much-needed break to the caregiver. The AARP study also determined there is a need to help prevent caregivers from being overwhelmed by stress from caregiving.
"Family caregivers are the backbone of the long term care industry, providing 80% of all caregiving," added Dick White, VIP President. "We must protect their health. This legislation will provide a break for Arizona's caregiving families."
"Respite care can provide direly needed support to families and individuals caring for loved ones at home on a daily basis and we applaud the Arizona Legislature for taking the initiative to recognize the important role they play," Solis said.
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