### Question
How is the term caregiver defined?


### Answer
The term **caregiver** is defined in *42 U.S.C. § 1397j* as the following:

> an individual who has the responsibility for the care of an elder, either voluntarily, by contract, by receipt of payment for care, or as a result of the operation of law, and means a family member or other individual who provides (on behalf of such individual or of a public or private agency, organization, or institution) compensated or uncompensated care to an elder who needs supportive services in any setting

#### Citation:
  - *42 U.S.C. § 1397j*
  - Heading: **CHAPTER 7-SOCIAL SECURITY > SUBCHAPTER XX-BLOCK GRANTS TO STATES FOR SOCIAL SERVICES AND ELDER JUSTICE > Division B-Elder Justice**

