News Talk 94.1/AM 1600 Where The Upper Cumberland Talks
State Representative Ryan Williams carrying legislation that would add state funding incentives to recruit more respite care workers.
It is a follow-up bill to a passed law last year that funds four hours of care to about 300 families across the state. After its first year of implementation, Williams said the money has yet to be used because a lack of caregivers.
“There is such a shortage of respite care workers out there and it is such a short period of time for a pilot project, a lot of people are not taking advantage of that,” Williams said. “This follow-up bill would further incentive companies to provide these services.”
Williams said the care focuses on those diagnosed with Alzheimer’s. Williams said the bill would hopefully aid in keeping those diagnosed in their homes for longer before going to long-term care facilities.
Williams said overall, it would save the state money and family’s time by providing the four hours of care.
