Bill > S3231

This bill amends the Older Americans Act to create a new grant program for supporting family caregivers by providing funding to eligible entities (such as government agencies, nonprofits, area agencies on aging, and Tribal organizations) to develop integrated caregiver support services. The grants would allow recipients to provide respite care—temporary care services for individuals needing assistance—alongside other supportive services, with a focus on accessibility. Specifically, the services must be designed to accommodate diverse needs, including offering support through assistive technology, providing translation services for non-English speakers, and ensuring compatibility with American Sign Language. The bill broadly defines family caregivers as adult family members or informal care providers who support older individuals or people with conditions like Alzheimer's, excluding those with professional care relationships. Grant recipients can provide these services directly or through contracts with healthcare or child care providers, with the goal of supporting caregivers who are providing in-home and community care, particularly older relative caregivers who are 55 or older and caring for children or individuals with disabilities. The legislation aims to recognize and support the critical role of informal caregivers by providing them with necessary resources and temporary relief.

Health and Social Services

https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/senate-bill/3231/all-info