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The Area Agency on Aging of Western Michigan applauds Governor Whitmer’s designation of November as Family Caregiver Month in Michigan. Research conducted by AARP and the National Alliance for Caregiving in 2020 showed that over 53 million American adults served in an unpaid caregiving role for someone aged 50 or older (relative, parent, parent-in-law). In Michigan alone, twenty-three percent of Michiganders, 1.73 million individuals, are identified as caregivers. Recognizing the work that they do is more important than ever.

“For many, caregiving is a role they may feel thrust into without much preparation. Caring for a loved one can take on a variety of forms from quick trips to doctor’s appointments to helping with daily household tasks and meal preparation,” shared Kendrick Heinlein, President and CEO at AAAWM. “It is vital that we recognize and advocate for this work. As an agency, we help provide wrap-around services that support these caregivers on all stages of their journey, however, additional funding is needed to fully address these needs amid a growing population.”

The designation of this month is intended to bring attention to public policy issues around family and informal caregiving, including addressing an aging Michigan population and a shrinking direct care workforce. In partnership with other Area Agencies on Aging in Michigan, we encourage additional funding to support the many family and informal caregivers who provide unpaid care to Michigan citizens. To learn more about this initiative you can visit November 2023: Family Caregivers Month (michigan.gov).

Area Agency on Aging of Western Michigan

3215 Eaglecrest Drive

Grand Rapids,

616-456-5664

aaainfo@aaawm.org