National Family Caregivers Month, 2005

Proclamation 7957 of November 2, 2005

National Family Caregivers Month, 2005

By the President of the United States of America

A Proclamation

Each November, as Americans reflect on our many
blessings, we observe National Family Caregivers Month
and give thanks for the selfless service of family
caregivers on behalf of their loved ones in need. The
tireless devotion of these Americans brings comfort and
peace of mind to our Nation's elderly and to those who
are chronically ill or disabled.

Family caregivers play an important role in communities
across the United States. They provide most of the
homecare services in our country and work hard to meet
the emotional and physical needs of the family members
and friends for whom they care. Through the National
Family Caregiver Support Program, my Administration
continues to encourage States and local agencies on
aging to partner with faith-based, community, and
tribal organizations. These partnerships can offer
family caregivers the important information,
counseling, training, respite care, and support
services they need.

This November, enrollment begins under the new Medicare
prescription drug benefit, which offers more affordable
access to prescription drugs, better health care
choices, and extra help to low-income seniors and
beneficiaries with disabilities. This new coverage will
help family caregivers, who often inform or make
medical decisions for those they care for, by ensuring
that their loved ones receive the best health care
available.

Every day, family caregivers sacrifice their own needs
to offer their loved ones the opportunity to live with
dignity and independence in familiar surroundings.
Their love, selflessness, and devotion inspire us all
and demonstrate the compassionate spirit of America.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, GEORGE W. BUSH, President of the
United States of America, by virtue of the authority
vested in me by the Constitution and laws of the United
States, do hereby proclaim November 2005 as National
Family Caregivers Month. I encourage all Americans to
honor and support those who serve as caregivers to
their family members, friends, and neighbors in need.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this
second day of November, in the year of our Lord two
thousand five, and of the Independence of the United
States of America the two hundred and thirtieth.

(Presidential Sig.)B