A bipartisan bill that would extend funding for programs that provide short-time relief to unpaid caregivers who look after people with disabilities or chronic conditions has been introduced in Congress. Congressman Nick Langworthy is co-leading the Lifespan Respite Care Reauthorization Act, which would continue funding the Lifespan Respite Care Program through fiscal year 2029. The Western New York Republican was joined by Hawaii Democrat Jill Tokuda in introducing the legislation in the House on Wednesday. Maine Republican Susan Collins and Wisconsin Democrat Tammy Baldwin have introduced the companion to this bill in the Senate.
According to Langworthy, the Lifespan Respite Care Program plays a crucial role in supporting caregivers and enhancing the overall quality of life for individuals with chronic conditions or disabilities, such as Alzheimer's or dementia. By providing funding opportunities to states and programs, these programs offer caregivers a temporary break from the heavy physical, mental, and financial tolls associate with caregiving that, all too often, go unnoticed. This can, in turn, improve the quality of life for both caregivers and individuals living with chronic illness.
Langworthy says, "Too often we see family members who are full time caregivers on top of the other responsibilities of life. While this is selfless and heroic work, it is often financially and emotionally taxing on the entire family. Respite care helps to reduce mental stress and physical health issues that family caregivers may experience, keeping them healthy and families intact."
