Federal policies to address the health and well being of caregivers across the lifespan

Significant strides have been made in recent years to improve our understanding of the physical, psychological, and economic impact of family caregiving. While scientists and practitioners continue their efforts to improve our knowledge and practice, policy makers are also focusing growing attention toward this important public health issue.

In recent years, an increasing number of federal policy initiatives have been proposed to ease the physical, psychological, and financial burden experienced by family caregivers across the lifespan. These federal policy approaches targeting family caregivers include legislative initiatives which provide direct services, financial incentives and compensation, consumer choice models, and employer-based mechanisms.

This presentation will provide an overview of federal policy initiatives to address the health and well being of family caregivers. Presenters will discuss recently enacted federal caregiving legislation as well as legislative proposals that are currently being considered by the U.S. Congress. Particular attention will be focused on the potential impact of these policies on the physical and mental health of family caregivers. In addition, the important role that public health professionals can play as experts and advocates in the policy making process will also be highlighted.