[Federal Register Volume 66, Number 221 (Thursday, November 15, 2001)]
[Presidential Documents]
[Pages 57637-57638]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 01-28803]


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  Federal Register / Vol. 66, No. 221 / Thursday, November 15, 2001 / 
Presidential Documents  

[[Page 57637]]


                Proclamation 7498 of November 9, 2001

                
National Family Caregivers Month, 2001

                By the President of the United States of America

                A Proclamation

                During November, we traditionally give thanks for our 
                many blessings, which include the dedication and 
                sacrifice of our Nation's many family caregivers who 
                enhance the lives of loved ones by helping them live at 
                home, despite challenges that hinder independent 
                living.

                More than 7 million Americans devote themselves to this 
                noble responsibility. Family caregivers dedicate an 
                average of 20 hours per week in care for their loved 
                ones and, in some cases, fulfill their multiple 
                responsibilities around the clock. Those who provide 
                in-home care for the elderly and for persons with 
                disabilities face many demands. In performing such 
                challenging and compassionate duties, family caregivers 
                must sacrifice considerable time, resources, and 
                personal comfort.

                But these caregivers allow many older Americans to 
                remain at home who would otherwise have to live in 
                nursing homes. Seniors who live at home usually live 
                longer, enjoy a more active life, and spend more time 
                with their families and communities. As they lead 
                fuller lives, this great generation continues to enrich 
                our country by sharing their valuable wisdom and 
                experience with younger generations.

                To support those who work to keep their loved ones at 
                home, my Administration has begun to implement the 
                ``National Family Caregiver Support Program.'' Through 
                a national network of state and area agencies on aging, 
                the program provides information to caregivers about 
                available counseling, support groups, training, and 
                other services. In addition, the program provides 
                respite care to temporarily relieve caregivers.

                Family caregivers deserve our support and respect. They 
                tirelessly assume demanding responsibilities for the 
                benefit of those they love. During this challenging 
                time for our Nation, their selfless heroism 
                demonstrates the quiet determination and courage of the 
                American spirit.

                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 2001 as National 
                Family Caregivers Month. I encourage all Americans to 
                recognize the importance of the family, of our older 
                citizens, and the millions of caregivers who work to 
                keep their loved ones at home.

[[Page 57638]]

                IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this 
                ninth day of November, in the year of our Lord two 
                thousand one, and of the Independence of the United 
                States of America the two hundred and twenty-sixth.

                    (Presidential Sig.)B

[FR Doc. 01-28803
Filed 11-14-01; 9:34 am]
Billing code 3195-01-P