Caring for Caregivers

A recent NY Times article entitled "Caring for an Ill Spouse, and Other Caregivers" explores the benefits of a caregiver support group for individuals who are caring for their spouses, parents or others who are ill. Support groups are an invaluable resource for individuals to vent, have a shoulder to lean on, and to learn ways to cope with their loved one's illness. What other resources need to be made available for caregivers? Why is it that the bulk of caregiving falls on family and there is little governmental support for this?