The "Families Care Act" amends the Older Americans Act of 1965 to enhance support for family caregivers, including peer support and addressing the unique needs of those affected by substance use disorders.
Ted Budd
Senator
NC
The Families Care Act amends the Older Americans Act of 1965 to enhance the National Family Caregiver Support Program. It expands support services to include peer support, prioritizes consideration for diverse caregiver needs including those affected by substance use disorders, and ensures regular support from the Assistant Secretary. The act also mandates the preparation, publication, and dissemination of resources for family caregivers.
Caregiver Support Gets Real-World Upgrades: Families Care Act Adds Peer Help and Focus on Substance Use Impacts
This bill tweaks the existing National Family Caregiver Support Program, part of the Older Americans Act, aiming to make support more practical and accessible. Key changes include officially adding peer support to the list of recognized services and requiring states to give "priority consideration" – a slight but meaningful shift from just "priority" – to caregivers dealing with specific challenges, including the fallout from substance use disorders like opioid addiction.
More Hands on Deck for Caregivers
So what does adding "peer support" actually mean? Think of it as connecting caregivers with others who truly get it because they're living it too. If you're juggling work while caring for a parent with Alzheimer's, this change under Section 373(b)(3) could mean easier access to support groups or one-on-one connections with folks navigating the same emotional and logistical hurdles. It acknowledges that sometimes the best advice comes from someone in the trenches with you. The bill also adjusts how states prioritize support under subsection (c), nudging them to give specific attention, or "priority consideration," to those with the greatest needs, ensuring resources are directed effectively.
Spotlight on Tough Situations & Keeping Info Flowing
The legislation specifically calls out the need to support caregivers affected by substance use disorders (subsection (c)). This is a big deal because caring for someone struggling with addiction, or dealing with the ripple effects on grandchildren or other family members, brings unique and intense pressures. States will now be required to factor these specific needs into their support plans. Additionally, the bill updates how information gets out. Instead of a one-off deadline, the Assistant Secretary for Aging is now tasked under subsection (e) to "on a regular basis... prepare, publish, and disseminate" information on caregiver support, aiming for a more consistent flow of helpful resources rather than relying on potentially outdated materials.