WHEREAS, approximately 20 percent of North Carolinians provide regular care to a family member or friend with special needs, and the number of adults aged 85 and older is projected to double over the next two decades, increasing the likelihood that more caregivers will be needed; and
WHEREAS, the COVID-19 pandemic brought new and unique challenges to the everyday needs of caregivers; and
WHEREAS, North Carolina’s caregivers remain diverse in their characteristics and circumstances, they share a common goal of keeping their family member or friend in their community of choice; and benefit from the assurances that the business, faith, medical, and human service communities can assist with information and services when needed; and
WHEREAS, the North Carolina Division of Aging and Adult Services, Area Agencies on Aging, local providers, and many other organizations are committed to increasing awareness and meeting caregivers’ needs; and
WHEREAS, helping North Carolina’s family caregivers’ access and utilize support and respite services can protect a family caregiver’s health, strengthen family relationships, and enable a care recipient to remain at home; and
WHEREAS, the State of North Carolina encourages people to acknowledge and support family, friends, and neighbors who help those who are aging or have disabilities; support of family caregivers is not only the right thing to do, but an essential investment in a better future for North Carolina’s older adults and individuals with disabilities;
NOW, THEREFORE, I, ROY COOPER, Governor of the State of North Carolina, do hereby proclaim November, 2021, as “FAMILY CAREGIVER MONTH” in North Carolina, and commend its observance to all citizens.