Despite substantial efforts to support family caregivers in the United States, there remains no coherent philosophy behind these efforts. Contributors to this book analyze family caregiving policy for the elderly and examine the ramifications of various changes in current US policy. Issues explored include the diversity in family responses to family care, and current family caregiving programmes including those designed for the caregivers themselves. The book also contains an appraisal of inconsistent policies regarding family compensation and the family's status in allocating formal care. The editors conclude with their own recommendations for an optimal long-term care policy.