A JOINT MEMORIAL

EXPRESSING THE LEGISLATURE'S RECOGNITION AND APPRECIATION FOR FAMILY CAREGIVERS THROUGHOUT THE STATE.

WHEREAS, the majority of home- and community-based long-term care is provided by family members; and

WHEREAS, a growing number of grandparents are carrying out the role of primary caregiver for their grandchildren; and

WHEREAS, an increasing number of adult children, spouses and other family members are caring for a growing number of frail elders and permanently disabled persons; and

WHEREAS, these caregivers are devoted individuals who often assume responsibilities for several generations of family members; and

WHEREAS, many of these caregivers hold full-time jobs in addition to their caregiving responsibilities; and

WHEREAS, caregiving is frequently physically demanding and emotionally draining, affecting the health of the caregiver; and

WHEREAS, these caregivers are, themselves, in need of supportive services; and

WHEREAS, these caregiving services are of inestimable value, the cost of which is beyond the ability of the state to fund;

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF NEW MEXICO that recognition and appreciation be extended to New Mexico's family caregivers; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that copies of this memorial be transmitted to family caregivers throughout the state via the state agency on aging's family caregiver support program and the developmental disabilities planning council.