[Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents Volume 37, Number 46 (Monday, November 19, 2001)]
[Pages 1633-1634]
[Online from the Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

<R04>
Proclamation 7498--National Family Caregivers Month, 2001

 November 9, 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

[[Page 1634]]

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.
    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.
                                                George W. Bush

[Filed with the Office of the Federal Register, 9:34 a.m., November 14, 
2001]

Note: This proclamation was published in the Federal Register on 
November 15. This item was not received in time for publication in the 
appropriate issue.