National Influenza Vaccination Week
Message from the Assistant Secretary

National Influenza Vaccination Week, Monday, November 27th through Sunday, December 3rd, serves as a reminder that getting vaccinated is the single best way to protect yourself and your loved ones against influenza. Anyone who wants to reduce their chances of getting the flu can get vaccinated.

If you have not been vaccinated yet, do it as soon as possible to protect yourself and your loved ones against this serious disease…… the only thing you want to catch this holiday season is the holiday spirit, not the flu.

It is especially important for older adults and their families to get vaccinated for the flu. Older adults are a part of certain groups that are at increased risk for complications from the flu. Healthy household contacts and caregivers of high risk persons can help protect their vulnerable older loved ones by getting vaccinated. Thank you for taking this important step for your health and the health of your loved ones during this blessed holiday season.

Josefina G. Carbonell

Thanksgiving Message
from the Assistant Secretary for Aging

Thanksgiving is a time to reflect on the many blessings we have been given in our lives. This season, as we gather around our loved ones please take a moment and remember the older Americans and the families we serve every day. It is through the dedication and compassion of all of us at in the National Aging Services Network that enable older adults to stay healthier, happier and more independent in their homes and communities. Thanks for helping to provide so many blessings for so many older Americans and Happy Thanksgiving!

Josefina G. Carbonell

National Family Caregivers Month, 2006

Our country is blessed to have millions of compassionate citizens who bring love and support to family members and friends who are chronically ill, elderly, or disabled. During National Family Caregivers Month, we recognize these kind individuals who give of their hearts, resources, and energy to assist loved ones in need.

Family caregivers exemplify the true spirit of compassion by providing support to their loved ones and assisting with their everyday activities and special needs. These selfless people must often make great personal sacrifices to maintain the care and support their family and friends require. Their assistance provides those who may be ill, aging, or disabled an opportunity to stay in familiar surroundings and remain a part of their community.

My Administration is committed to supporting family caregivers and their vital role in our Nation's communities. The National Family Caregiver Support Program continues to provide information, counseling, and services and encourages cooperation among agencies and other providers that work with caregivers. These efforts assist caregivers and help ensure that all Americans receive the care they need.

As we observe National Family Caregivers Month, we honor family caregivers who take time out of their lives to improve the lives of family and friends. Their efforts demonstrate the best of the American spirit.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, GEORGE W. BUSH, President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim November 2006 as National Family Caregivers Month. I encourage all Americans to honor the selfless service of caregivers who support their loved ones in need.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this thirtieth day of October, in the year of our Lord two thousand six, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-first.

GEORGE W. BUSH

Message from the Assistant Secretary for Aging

I am pleased to join President Bush in honoring our nation’s family caregivers. Caregivers play a critical role in helping seniors maintain their independence and avoid nursing home placement. The annual value of the care they provide to their loved ones, friends and neighbors has been estimated to be $306 billion dollars. Each year, the National Family Caregiver Support Program, administered by the Administration on Aging, provides much needed respite care and other supportive services to family members who are caring for their older loved ones who are ill or who have disabilities. Through effective outreach to over 12 million individuals with information about the Caregiver Program in FY 2003 and FY 2004, the aging network provided direct services to more than one million caregivers in FY 2005. This program has made it possible for millions of family members to remain living at home among their family and friends, which is the overwhelming preference of the American people. I am so proud that the Administration on Aging and the national aging network has been entrusted with the responsibility of assisting America’s caregivers. Along with demonstrating the American spirit, these courageous caregivers represent the heart of our communities.

JOSEFINA G. CARBONELL