Res 1154-2025

Whereas, Family caregivers play an indispensable role in the health and social-care ecosystem by providing unpaid assistance - such as help with bathing, dressing, medication management, transportation, meal preparation, and household tasks - to relatives, friends, or neighbors living with chronic illness, disability, or age-related limitations; and Whereas, As of 2025, there are approximately 63 million family caregivers in the United States, representing nearly one-in-four adults; and Whereas, In New York State (NYS), there are an estimated 4.1 million caregivers providing unpaid care, of which an estimated 1.3 million reside in New York City ("NYC" or "City"); and Whereas, According to AARP, the unpaid care provided by family caregivers in NYS is valued at about $39 billion annually, underscoring the considerable economic contribution and cost savings they generate by enabling loved ones to remain in their homes and communities; and Whereas, This essential work often occurs with little formal training, limited respite, and significant strain on a caregivers own physical health, mental well-being, and employment stability; and Whereas, Caregivers also face substantial financial and practical burdens, with AARP national data showing that 80% spend their own money to help meet a loved one's needs, averaging $7,200 or 25% of their income, and NYS data showing 36% of caregivers report financial setbacks such as new debt or depleted savings; 26% struggle to access affordable supports like meal delivery and transportation; and 28% simultaneously care for a child under the age of 18 while also providing adult care, often while holding full- or part-time jobs that they may be forced to reduce hours or leave entirely; and Whereas, The population of older adults in NYC is growing rapidly: the number of New Yorkers age 65 and older increased by 53% from 2000 to 2023 and is now approximately 1.43 million, making older adults one of the fastest-growing demographic groups in the City; and Whereas, As the City's older adult population expands, the need for family caregivers continues to grow, making the recognition, support, and education of caregivers a public priority; and Whereas, While caregivers should be celebrated every day, Family Caregivers Month is a time to recognize and honor caregivers, raise awareness around caregiving issues, educate communities, and work to increase support for our City's caregivers; now, therefore, be it Resolved, That the Council of the City of New York designates November as Family Caregivers Month in the City of New York. CGR LS #20634 11/19/2025 1