SPRINGFIELD – Senate Majority Leader Kimberly A. Lightford knows what it takes to be a caregiver for a senior after taking care of her mother for many years. Despite Lightford having the support and resources to care for her mother, it was incredibly difficult to do so.

She acknowledges not everyone has the same support, and therefore face even more struggles – leading her to fight for more revenue for older adults and their caregivers.

“I know what it means to rearrange your life around someone you love, managing medications, doctor’s visits and sleepless nights,” said Lightford (D-Maywood). “I know what it is like to show up every day – not because someone is paying you, but because you love the person. And I know what it means to do all of that while stretching a budget that was already too thin.”

Lightford was joined by the Illinois Association of Area Agencies on Aging and a number of other advocates and stakeholders at a press conference Wednesday to recognize the critical need to provide greater investments in the essential services that allow Illinoisans to age with dignity in their own homes. 

The reaction comes in response to increasing costs in food, labor and fuel, and a need to ensure older adults aren’t burdened with reduced meal delivery, caregiver burnout and waitlists being implemented across the state.

Additionally, with approaching reductions in SNAP benefits, many older adults will be at significantly higher risk of food insecurity, placing urgent pressure on already strained nutrition programs. Family caregivers will also be at increased risk, as SNAP reductions strain already tight household food budgets and new work requirements may force some caregivers to choose between employment and providing care for their loved ones.

“With SNAP reductions on the horizon, families who are already stretched thin will be forced to make impossible choices – between keeping a job and providing care,” said Lightford. “Older adults and caregivers alike deserve support that reflects the value they bring to our communities.”

Lightford will continue to advocate for additional revenue streams for older adults and their caregivers.