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March 06.2025
3 Minutes Read

New Leaders Join National Alliance for Caregiving: Empowering Elders and Caregivers

National Alliance for Caregiving Leadership welcomes new members.

New Leadership at the National Alliance for Caregiving: A Step Forward for Caregivers

The National Alliance for Caregiving (NAC) has strengthened its leadership team with the recent welcome of three exceptional professionals, whose experiences and insights will deepen the organization's commitment to support family caregivers across the United States. With an ever-growing number of caregivers—estimated at 53 million—this expansion signifies a strategic move towards addressing the complex challenges these individuals face.

Elevating Caregiving Advocacy through Rich Expertise

Elaine, the new Vice President, brings an impressive background in federal policy, having previously led initiatives at First Focus on Children and AARP. Her extensive Capitol Hill experience equips NAC with valuable insights into effective advocacy strategies that can influence legislation impacting long-term services and supports for caregivers. As the caregiving landscape evolves, having a leader who has navigated these corridors of power provides NAC with the advocacy muscle needed to prioritize caregivers' voices.

Adali, whose experience in corporate partnerships at organizations like The Trevor Project and UnidosUS will facilitate vital collaborations, aims to connect corporations with social responsibility initiatives that uplift LGBTQ+ youth and minority communities. This integration of corporate partnerships into caregiving initiatives is crucial as it not only reflects changing societal values but also aligns economic capabilities with caregiver support, amplifying resources available for those in need.

Research and Insights: A Foundation for Change

The addition of Lori Frank, Ph.D., as Senior Research Fellow marks a significant leap in NAC's research capabilities. Dr. Frank’s expertise in health research, particularly in memory screening and dementia services, will enable NAC to extend its focus on critical aspects of caregiving that often get overlooked. Her previous leadership at Women’s Health Access Matters (WHAM) highlights the necessity of research in pushing for funding and initiatives that directly benefit caregivers and their families.

Social Connection: The Heart of Caregiving

The importance of community cannot be overstated when it comes to caregiving. As NAC expands its leadership, it also deepens its commitment to building social connections among caregivers—a crucial element that can mitigate the feelings of isolation that often plague those providing care. By fostering an environment where caregivers can share their challenges, best practices, and successes, NAC is not only empowering individuals but also reshaping the narrative of caregiving in the United States.

Future Trends: Expanding the Impact of Caregiver Support

With the launch of the Caregiver Nation Network, NAC is poised to cultivate state leaders capable of advising on national policy changes vital for family caregivers. This initiative underscores a proactive approach in equipping advocates with the tools, resources, and data necessary to bring systemic change. As caregivers confront increasing stressors—emotional, financial, and health-related—this network provides a vital platform for dialogue and advocacy.

Additionally, the network's emphasis on collective learning and resource sharing ensures that caregivers from diverse backgrounds can contribute their voices toward comprehensive, equitable care solutions. The states involved, including California, Texas, and Michigan, represent a varied tapestry of caregiving experiences and challenges, further enriching the conversations and solutions developed through this network.

Embracing Change: The National Alliance for Caregiving’s Vision

The transitions within the NAC’s leadership come at a pivotal time when caregiving is recognized not only as a vital service but also as a pressing social issue requiring concerted action. As NAC harnesses the expertise of its new team members, it affirms its dedication to advocating for policies that reflect the real-world experiences of caregivers and their families, ultimately striving for a more supportive caregiving ecosystem.

As we celebrate this new chapter for the National Alliance for Caregiving, it’s essential for both caregivers and stakeholders to engage with these developments, ensuring the voices of caregivers are heard and prioritized in policy discussions. Support from local communities and broader networks will determine the effectiveness of these initiatives, cementing a future where caregivers receive the recognition and resources they deserve.

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09.10.2025

Why the FY26 Funding Bill for Family Caregivers Needs Your Support Now

Update Understanding the FY26 Funding Bill for CaregiversThe recent release of the Fiscal Year 2026 Labor, Health and Human Services, Education and Related Agencies funding bill by the House Committee on Appropriations has sparked significant discussion among advocates for family caregivers. With an aging population in the United States, the need for robust support systems has never been more critical. The National Alliance for Caregiving (NAC) has expressed both appreciation and disappointment regarding the funding bill, highlighting the complexities of caregiving in today’s society.The Impact of Caregiving on Families and CommunitiesFamily caregivers are often unsung heroes, providing care to loved ones and significantly impacting the community and economy. With over 63 million Americans acting as caregivers, their contributions are estimated at around $600 billion annually. This care enables countless individuals to remain in their homes, fostering independence while saving government resources by reducing reliance on institutional care. As the NAC points out, the need for support has increased by nearly 50% since 2015. Such statistics underline the importance of advocating for funding that reflects this growing reality.The Discrepancy Between House and Senate ProposalsWhile the House funding bill takes steps to allocate funds toward programs aiding family caregivers, it disappointingly reflects a $10 million decrease in overall funding for the Administration for Community Living. In contrast, the Senate has proposed significantly higher funding levels — $209 million for the National Family Caregiver Support Program (NFCSP) and $11 million for Lifespan Respite Care. Jason Resendez, President and CEO of the NAC, urges policymakers to bridge this gap in the funding proposals as they move toward finalizing the appropriations bill.Future Predictions: The Need for Enhanced Caregiver SupportAs the population age continues to rise, we can anticipate a corresponding increase in the number of caregivers. Currently, 10,000 Americans turn 65 every day. If investment in caregiver support does not keep pace with these demographics, the burden on caregivers is likely to exacerbate, potentially affecting the health and economic security of households across the nation. Predictions indicate that without adequate support, caregivers may face greater physical and emotional strain, leading to a decline in their health and overall community well-being.Counterarguments and Diverse PerspectivesCritics of the current funding proposals argue that the government should explore alternative funding methods to assist caregivers, such as private-public partnerships or community-funded initiatives. Advocates for these perspectives believe that fostering innovation might yield new approaches to support family caregivers beyond traditional funding models. However, such actions might take time to implement, whereas immediate funding increases could have a direct and profound impact on those in need.Taking Action: Why Your Support MattersAs the national conversation about caregiving continues, it’s essential for citizens to engage with their local representatives regarding the importance of increasing support for family caregivers. Utilizing social media, attending town hall meetings, or writing letters to Congress are all vital steps in advocating for the necessary changes. By advocating for the proposed increases from the Senate funding bill, you contribute to ensuring that families do not navigate the caregiving journey alone.Conclusion: Navigating the Future of CaregivingThe discussions surrounding the FY26 funding bill highlight the critical intersection of policy, caregiving, and community support. The time is now for lawmakers to recognize the essential contributions of family caregivers and commit to robust funding that meets their needs. By fostering a supportive environment for these individuals, we invest not only in our families but in the overall health and stability of our nation.

08.29.2025

From Hidden to Essential: Understanding Family Caregivers' Impact on Healthcare

Update Shifting Perspectives on Family Caregiving Family caregiving in America has transcended its traditional role, becoming a vital component of our healthcare system. As of 2025, around 63 million Americans—nearly one in four adults—are providing care to a family member, friend, or neighbor. This represents a 45% increase in just a decade. The landscape of caregiving now encompasses a diverse demographic spectrum, touching individuals across all education levels, income levels, and ethnic backgrounds. Behind the Numbers: Personal Stories While data paints a broad picture, the true essence of caregiving lies within individual stories. Take Parvathy, for example, who intricately manages the care of her child with a rare disease. Her experiences elucidate a shared reality: caregiving is an intimate journey, defined by the unique medical needs of those receiving care and the resources available to help them. This narrative is critical as it personalizes the statistics, providing context and depth. The Importance of Narrative Change As the National Alliance for Caregiving (NAC) evolves its approach, it recognizes the need for narrative change. It's not enough to merely share experiences; the aim is to reshape societal understanding of family caregivers. The goal is to transition from seeing family caregiving as a private affair to acknowledging its essential role within the healthcare system. This shift requires collective action and an appreciation of caregivers as integral parts of our communities. Data as a Foundation for Advocacy NAC's wealth of data on family caregivers serves as a formidable resource in advocating for systemic change. With approximately $600 billion of unpaid care contributed annually, caregivers are driving a significant portion of our economy, rivaling the GDP of some countries. Yet, many face financial difficulties due to their caregiving roles. By highlighting the dual role of family caregivers as both supporters of health and economic contributors, NAC aims to elevate their status and advocate for better support mechanisms. The Economic Impact of Family Caregivers The reality of caregivers goes beyond emotional support; they are economic powerhouses that are often overlooked. By valuing their contributions, we can better understand the need for policy changes that provide financial backing and resources. Caregivers not only reduce healthcare costs and enable more people to remain in their communities, but they also face significant risks to their financial well-being. Real-World Implications for Elder Law and Planning This evolution in understanding family caregiving comes with notable implications for elder law and long-term care planning. Decision-makers in these fields must recognize that supporting caregivers extends beyond simply providing legal advice; it involves crafting policies that actively protect their rights and financial stability. Effective planning must incorporate the realities of caregiving to ensure that both caregivers and those receiving care receive adequate support. Taking Action: A Call for Change To effectively support family caregivers, advocacy groups and policymakers must recognize their essential status in the healthcare framework. Efforts should focus on creating community resources and financial assistance programs tailored to caregivers' unique needs. This transformation calls for a collective effort across all levels of society. As we advance, it is crucial to foster conversations about caregiving that acknowledge both its challenges and its importance. By engaging with data and narratives, we can create a future where family caregivers are celebrated as vital contributors to our health and economic systems. Together, let’s forge a new societal consensus that caregiver support is not merely an option; it is a necessity.

08.29.2025

Addressing Inequities in Caregiver Support at U.S. Transplant Centers

Update Understanding Caregiver Inequities in U.S. Transplant Centers The National Alliance for Caregiving (NAC) has unveiled substantial disparities in support services offered to family caregivers at U.S. transplant centers. Their brief, The Family Caregiver Gap: Disparities and Missed Opportunities in Support Services Across U.S. Transplant Centers, highlights how systemic inequities affect caregivers' preparedness and overall patient care. Why Caregiver Support Is Vital for Transplant Success Family caregivers are often essential for a transplant's success, yet many face unanticipated challenges. The brief's findings reveal that caregivers of diverse backgrounds, particularly those from marginalized communities, encounter significant barriers to accessing necessary support services. This can lead to inadequate preparation for caregivers, which directly affects patient outcomes. The Unequal Landscape of Caregiver Support Services The NAC survey demonstrated glaring inequities across transplant centers based on factors such as race, income, and age. Notably, facilities serving predominantly low-income or Black/African American communities tend to have fewer resources for caregiver support. Moreover, young caregivers, who play an increasingly important role, are often overlooked entirely. Only 18% of centers provide youth-specific programs, leaving this crucial demographic without proper guidance or resources. Barriers Created by Outsourced Services Many essential services, like financial counseling and medical education, are often outsourced. This practice creates delays and complicates caregivers' efforts to secure necessary assistance. Without onsite support, caregivers may be left feeling overwhelmed and unprepared, which can further compromise quality patient care. Proactive Screening: A Missed Opportunity Interestingly, only 3% of surveyed centers regularly assess caregiver needs. This lack of proactive screening results in a reactive support model where needs are addressed only after crises arise. Enhancing screening processes could dramatically improve caregiver preparedness and, ultimately, patient outcomes. Barriers to Awareness: A Key Challenge Close to 48% of transplant centers reported that limited awareness of caregiver support needs is a significant challenge. This suggests a crucial gap in understanding the critical role caregivers play in the transplant process. Greater awareness at institutional levels is essential in addressing these disparities. Recommendations for Policy Change The NAC brief outlines actionable recommendations that could transform how caregivers are supported. By developing standardized screening protocols and integrating support throughout the transplant process, institutions can better serve families in need. Addressing social determinants of health and creating incentives for caregiving support through policies could drastically improve the landscape for caregivers, particularly those from underserved populations. Looking Ahead: A Call for Systemic Change As our healthcare system undergoes transformation, there's a unique opportunity to address and rectify caregiver inequities. "The support family caregivers receive shouldn’t be a lottery based on race, income, or zip code,” asserts Jason Resendez, President & CEO of NAC. By prioritizing caregiver support, we can ensure better outcomes for both caregivers and patients. Conclusion: The Importance of Family Caregivers Family caregivers play an indispensable role in the success of transplant procedures. However, as highlighted by the NAC's findings, they often do so without adequate support, particularly if they belong to marginalized communities. Strengthening this support system is not just a necessity; it is a moral imperative.

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