A concurrent RESOLUTION

tO RECOGNIZE NATIONAL CAREGIVERS DAY IN THE STATE OF SOUTH CAROLINA ON FEBRUARY 16, 2024, AS A TESTAMENT TO THE SELFLESS DEDICATION AND INVALUABLE CONTRIBUTIONS OF CAREGIVERS THROUGHOUT THE STATE.

Whereas, caregivers serve as the cornerstone of healthcare and personal support across the nation, dedicating their lives to assisting individuals who are elderly, disabled, or otherwise in need of care; and

Whereas, formal caregivers and trained professionals offering specialized care within structured settings ensure the health and well-being of those requiring assistance. They provide personal care, such as assistance with daily living activities to maintain comfort and hygiene; medication management, such as proper administration of medications as per prescribed schedules; mobility assistance, including support with movement, enhancing the mobility of individuals; meal preparation, including nutritional support tailored to dietary needs and preferences; and emotional support, that is, the offering of emotional comfort and companionship, which fosters well-being; and

Whereas, informal caregivers, often family members or friends, offer care out of love and commitment without compensation. Their contributions include assistance with activities of daily living, such as personal and household tasks; emotional support, such as providing companionship and a listening ear; medical task management, that is, handling medication schedules and healthcare coordination; and

Whereas, professional caregivers (employed to deliver care and assistance) and family caregivers (family members who take on caregiving responsibilities) together bridge the gap between formal healthcare services and home-based support, focusing on personal care, companionship, and medical tasks; and

Whereas, National Caregivers Day, observed annually on the third Friday of February, offers an opportunity to acknowledge and celebrate the hard work, dedication, and compassion of caregivers everywhere, with the 2024 observance falling on February 16; and

Whereas, the State of South Carolina recognizes the critical role caregivers play in maintaining the health, independence, and dignity of those they serve, thereby contributing significantly to the fabric of our communities and the overall well-being of society; and

Whereas, reaffirming its commitment to supporting caregivers across the State and recognizing that their well-being is integral to the provision of quality care and the health of our communities, the General Assembly gratefully acknowledges the diverse roles of caregivers, from formal healthcare professionals to informal family members, and honors their commitment to providing compassionate care; and

Whereas, the General Assembly also encourages all citizens of South Carolina to observe National Caregivers Day by expressing gratitude and appreciation for caregivers and by recognizing their vital role in our healthcare system and society at large; and

Whereas, finally, the General Assembly calls upon state agencies, healthcare organizations, and community groups to promote awareness of the challenges faced by caregivers, and the members encourage these organizations to advocate for resources, support, and policies that assist caregivers in their essential roles. Now, therefore,

Be it resolved by the House of Representatives, the Senate concurring:

That the members of the South Carolina General Assembly, by this resolution, recognize National Caregivers Day in the State of South Carolina on February 16, 2024, as a testament to the selfless dedication and invaluable contributions of caregivers throughout the State.

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