I agree with the comments in this article. It is incredibly expensive to have a family member living in a facility and not always necessary. But the reality of caring for a disabled or elderly person is overwhelming. I especially the idea of a time bank and volunteers for caregiver respite.

With an aging population, we will need to have more options and a good time to start is now before the system is more overloaded. Many caregivers are the same age as the person requiring care--70's and 80's or older than 65. The health of the caregiver is affected by all that is required.

Respite care that is tailored to a families needs will benefit everyone. The caregiver will not burn out as fast and be able to address his/her own needs. A haircut or a visit to the dentist often has to be delayed or canceled all together because there is no one to care for the person with "disabilities".

Sorry, extra funds should be given back. Then let those people decide how they want to use them. Quit trying to stake a claim on something that never has been yours.

Well done -- and now get it done! start by moving funds from the developmental center to community services. and holding the states feet to the fire about how much it really costs to keep people in the institution (and all the employees .. the grounds... ).

People on the waiting list have already qualified for services under strict legal guidelines--they're not asking for "extra funds." They're asking the legislature to fund the program that is already in existence and is miserably underfunded. It's a little like signing your 5-year-old child up for kindergarten and then being told you'll be put on a waiting list. We'll send you to school someday, sweetie. Some disabled people stay on the waiting list for years, even decades. Taking care of those who can't care for themselves is a legitimate function of government.