Introduction

Today, people are living longer, healthier lives and the elderly population is rapidly growing. With diversity and longevity becoming two terms that describe America's workforce and population, the Federal Government is addressing the issues of aging and its impact on our families, work environment, and productivity.

The statistics on aging are overwhelming. As of 1999, there are more than 34 million individuals age 65 or older living in the United States. By the year 2030, it is expected that this number will exceed 70 million, more than double the present number. The average age of the Federal full-time employee is 45.6 years. Moreover, an increasing number of these employees face the challenges and responsibilities of caring for an aging family member or friend. Approximately 25.8 billion Americans spend an average of 18 hours a week caring for an ailing relative. Women, the traditional caregivers to elderly persons, today make up 44.4 percent of our workforce.

Given these demographics, it is important that the Federal Government offer elder care programs, policies, and initiatives to assist employees who are currently, or who will be caregivers with family and work/life demands.

The Handbook of Elder Care Resources for the Federal Workplace was developed to introduce you -- the employer and employee caregiver -- to the various services and resources that are available to help you make informed elder care decisions. From choosing an assisted living arrangement to dealing with the complexities of social security income, this Handbook provides practical tips and solutions to these complicated aging issues.

The Handbook describes a variety of community resources that are offered around the country to help older adults function independently and discusses housing options, financial and medical considerations, nursing homes, and home health care agencies. It also provides a listing of:

• Federal and National Elder Care Organizations;
• Area Agencies on Aging; and
• State Long-Term Care Ombudsman Offices.

The U.S. Office of Personnel Management (OPM) is committed to helping employees who care for elderly parents and older persons to meet their obligations to their families, personal responsibilities and the job.