For additional information and resources - http://www.aging.ny.gov/Caregiving/Index.cfm
Informal caregivers – families, friends, neighbors, and loved ones of the growing aging population – play a critical role in helping older persons who need support with tasks of everyday living to remain at home in the community, maintain their independence, and the quality of their lives. In fact, informal caregivers are recognized as the bedrock of community care, providing 75 to 80 per cent of the daily assistance needed by those who need long-term care.
In New York State, there are an estimated 2.2 million family caregivers providing care, at an estimated value of $24 billion. This unpaid care saves billions of dollars in state and federal funds. Furthermore, caregiving is a fundamental aspect of family and community life; it is one way of expressing commitment to those one cares about, and gives meaning to human relationships. Informal caregivers are an invaluable resource for their loved ones and to the United State’s health care system because of the care they provide. However, caregiving often comes at a price; it is challenging work, creating physical, emotional, and/or financial strains on the caregiver.
