The Strength of a Nation

As a country, we often find pride in those who stand strong and independent. Our core values emphasize self-reliance, and we even set aside days to celebrate that spirit. Pioneers, entrepreneurs, and innovators—these are the individuals we uplift.

However, the true measure of a nation’s worth is seen in its treatment of those who can’t stand alone. It’s reflected in how we care for the most vulnerable among us.

Countries that claim to be humane must demonstrate that commitment—not just through words or foreign aid, but through their actions towards the most marginalized individuals.

Every day, countless Americans exist outside the comforting narrative of self-sufficiency. Consider children born with profound disabilities, or veterans who carry emotional and physical scars long after their service. Then there are elderly parents coping with dementia and families burdened by a loved one’s addiction or mental health struggles.

There are people in their lives who genuinely care, yet they often remain invisible and alone, living in silence.

Those Overlooked

In the U.S., around 65 million family caregivers provide over $600 billion in unpaid care annually—an amount quite similar to what Medicare spends in a year. They do everything from assisting with basic needs to performing complex medical tasks, all while neglecting their own well-being and future. Yet, many feel unnoticed in a system they work hard to support.

Contrast that with the tens of billions allocated for medical care for undocumented immigrants each year. For example, California spends approximately $8.4 billion on healthcare for those undocumented residents, often inundating emergency rooms. Meanwhile, family caregivers scramble to avoid exposing their loved ones to crowded waiting rooms filled with risks of infection or worse.

If we can uncover billions to cater to those who break laws, why does it seem so challenging to support our citizens who help save our healthcare system vast sums annually? What does this reveal about our true priorities?

Steps Towards Change

President Donald Trump labeled family caregivers as “heroes,” committing to supporting them. I understand he has a lot on his plate, but the need for assistance is felt by 65 million Americans who are often left to care for chronically ill family members with little help, scarce training, and minimal resources. Each day, their responsibilities pile up, and they’re seldom relieved.

We don’t need an overblown bureaucratic system or excessive legislation to change our approach. Here are a few straightforward ideas that the president could implement immediately, though I have many more considering my extensive experience in this area.

For instance, offering refundable tax credits could recognize the significance of unpaid medical care.

Reallocating some Medicaid funding to follow patients at home could reinforce family bonds and cut down on the costs associated with facilities. These funds wouldn’t just vanish into vague programs; instead, we could have transparent monitoring and auditing. This is much more accountable than when various funds are pooled together in sanctuary cities, where accountability often remains a mere catchphrase.

Enriching respite care and flexible work policies could alleviate burnout and help caregivers maintain their jobs.

None of these proposals are groundbreaking. They all offer lower costs compared to nursing home care, which can exceed $90,000 per person per year. The most vital outcome is respecting human dignity and reinforcing families, which is fundamental to a stable society.

If we genuinely want to promote health in America, we must look beyond hospital beds and medications. True health encompasses how we support those who care for loved ones facing likely long-term challenges. Many chronic conditions are irreversible, and many injuries may never fully heal. Ultimately, how we uphold the caregivers in this tireless role could significantly influence our nation’s overall health, more so than our current policies do.

Supporting the Vulnerable

November is National Family Caregiver Month—a time to reflect on past speeches and commitments, questioning whether our compassion is sincere or simply opportunistic. The weakest among us reveal our true character. They serve as a test of whether our values are genuinely held beliefs or just empty words. Similarly, those who care for these individuals face that same scrutiny.

Countries claiming benevolence must prove it not solely through rhetoric and aid, but through their treatment of the most vulnerable individuals in their care. They’re reminded in sacred texts that we will be judged by how we treat the “least” (Matthew 25:40). Caregivers exemplify this duty daily, sharing burdens and reflecting the essence of compassion in the most mundane, yet profound ways.

As I often say to fellow caregivers, taking care of ourselves makes us better caregivers. Our commitment to our roles has not expired. Nor has the need of our loved ones. Yet, we have to protect that from deteriorating mentally, emotionally, physically, and financially. Supporting those engaged in this critical work ultimately strengthens family units.

Strong families foster vibrant communities, which in turn nurture robust nations. Thomas Jefferson expressed that it is the primary aim of good governance to support, not diminish, human life and happiness.