Health Reform Law Creates New Opportunities to Better Recognize and Support Family Caregivers

Family members, partners, and close friends—often known as “family caregivers”—are the most important source of support to older people and adults with chronic or disabling conditions. They provide the majority of care for loved ones who need help with activities of daily living, such as bathing and dressing, and instrumental activities of daily living, which may include going to medical appointments, taking medications, and paying bills. Family caregivers also increasingly carry out nursing tasks in the home.

The new health care reform law—the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (ACA) includes a number of provisions that provide meaningful opportunities to better recognize and address caregiver needs. This Fact Sheet highlights selected ACA provisions that mention family caregivers in important ways.