This means that more seniors than ever before will have long term care needs. All too often, people are unprepared to meet their long term care needs. Fortunately, many individuals have families who are able to care for them. As the Ranking Member of the Aging Committee and through my involvement with the National Family Caregivers Association, I have learned a great deal about the tremendous strain felt by family caregivers. But this care, though it is truly priceless, may not be enough.
Families often have to turn to a nursing home or other setting to care for their loved ones.
Unfortunately, the cost of institutional long term care can quickly deplete hard earned savings and financial resources. We in Congress must address this important issue. This hearing will be an important venue for learning how Hoosiers are coping with their long term care needs, and how we in Congress can help. I commend Senator Evan Bayh for chairing this Aging Committee hearing in his home state of Indiana. Senator Bayh has been a very active and committed member of the Aging Committee.