National trends show that the fastest growing segment of our population (85 years or older) will continue to increase as 77 million people enter their “golden years.” Providing for the needs of our rapidly aging society is one of the great challenges of our time. If we hope to meet this challenge without significant tax increases, we must start by encouraging and expecting families to play a greater role.

Our elders have great value as human beings regardless of physical and mental limitations. They deserve our care and protection. They are also our connection to the past. Sadly, too many suffer from loneliness and depression, feeling society has forgotten them. We can do better. We believe the family is the best place to care for these vulnerable members of our society. When families meet the needs of an aging parent or grandparent, we also benefit by learning lessons from the past that enrich our lives and those of future generations. Michigan should encourage families to plan and prepare for future needs, promote family caregiving, and foster intergenerational relationships.

Public Policy Initiatives

Tax Credit for In-Home Eldercare
Many adult children need help in order to provide in-home care to elderly parents. These families believe that multiple generation homes are healthier for everyone involved and they simply need financial assistance to make it work. A $1,000 tax credit for families who provide in-home care should be available. Such a credit may actually save taxpayers money by reducing or at least delaying the higher costs associated with care in nursing homes.

Tax Incentives for Long-Term Care Insurance
and Long-Term Care Savings Accounts
Michigan residents should receive tax relief for taking responsible steps to provide long-term care for themselves and their family members. Michigan law already encourages such behavior when it comes to retirement, home ownership and education. Long-term care should be treated in much the same way.

Promote Dignity for Our Elders
The legislature must work to create a system that promotes the dignity of the individual in their final years of life. Too often, families are unable to care for loved ones in a dignified or home-like setting. Even in group homes, regulatory mandates create barriers to dignity and place undue burdens on families and caregivers. The legislature must find unique ways to encourage inter-generational support that will reduce governmental dependency and foster a sense of community and purpose for individuals of all ages.

Current Activity

To view other important legislative issues that Michigan Family Forum is working on, visit our Legislative Update page.