On Wednesday, June 15, at the National Press Club in Washington, DC, The Home Care Association of America (HCAOA) and Global Coalition on Aging (GCOA) unveiled a report titled, Caring for America’s Seniors: The Value of Home Care.
The interactive discussion featured industry facts, existing data, and stories directly from caregivers working in the field, as well as the benefits of families who are part of the care. Key takeaways of the report state that home health care keeps seniors healthy and provides them with the choice to age at home – where the majority of seniors want to be. It also promotes peace-of-mind and wellness for family caregivers; and is emerging as a vital engine of economic growth, creating jobs and reducing strain on government programs.
During the event, Shelby, NC resident Tracey Read, BAYADA’s Certified Nursing Assistant and 2015 National Hero of the Year, discussed how she is able to lift the burden from family members of patients she cares for, especially seniors and those in remote locations. Her patient’s daughter, Lynn Wright, explained what an asset Read and home health care have been to her family.
“I go in each home with a purpose and mission to help each client have the best day possible and I continuously advocate and speak up for the best interest of what they need," said Read. She adds, "When I go to work, not only am I helping others, they are helping me. I can sleep well at night knowing the clients I care for are where they want to be.”
While this was the first public unveiling of the report, it was also presented privately to members of Congress and Capitol Hill staff, including Senator Joni Ernst (R-IA) and Congressman Tom Reed (R-NY) Wednesday morning. Legislation and the Credit for Caring Act of 2016 were part of the talk. Media were also invited to call into the event to listen to speakers.
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