Caregiver respite services and senior volunteer programs are essential in supporting the health and well-being of older adults in New Hampshire. They are also a key component of the state's long-term services and supports (LTSS) system. Caregiver respite programs provide family caregivers with support and relief from the physical and emotional demands of 24-hour caregiving, preventing burnout so caregivers can continue to provide quality care for their loved ones. Senior volunteer programs harness the power of volunteers to help isolated individuals with a variety of tasks, not only benefiting the individuals and communities served, but also the volunteers themselves. Together, caregiver respite and senior volunteer programs create a more supportive and resilient LTSS system.
2025 legislation aims to strengthen New Hampshire communities by investing in caregiver relief and senior volunteer programs, prioritizing the well-being of caregivers, older adults, and our local communities.
About the Legislation
The proposed 2025 legislation supports individuals living in the community by funding New Hampshire's caregiver respite and senior volunteer programs. It strengthens New Hampshire communities by investing in existing high-impact programs:
- Caregiver Respite Programs: Family caregivers are essential to New Hampshire's long-term services and supports (LTSS) system. An estimated 168,000 Granite State caregivers provide essential care to their loved ones, but it often comes with a cost: stress, burnout, and physical illness. The proposed legislation maintains funding for Alzheimer's Disease and Related Disorders (ADRD) caregiver respite, allowing caregivers to rest, recharge, and continue to provide quality care to family members. Supporting caregivers through respite services is an investment in the state's LTSS system.
- Senior Volunteer Programs: Senior volunteer programs provide services that are tailored to the needs of the community. New Hampshire's three senior volunteer programs include Senior Companions, Retired Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP), and Foster Grandparents. Whether volunteers visit an isolated individual, provide transporation to a medical appointment, pick up groceries, or mentor a child, their services help address unment community needs. They also provide health benefits to the volunteers — AmeriCorps Seniors volunteers experience decreased anxiety, depression, and loneliness, with 84% of volunteers reporting stable or improving health after one year of service. Investing in existing high-quality volunteer programs has an estimated return of $8 for every $1 invested.
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Legislation Status
A Legislative Service Request has been filed for the proposed legislation. Next, bill text will be released in the coming months, likely in late December or early January. Stay tuned for more information and how to get involved!
