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.