ALBANY, N.Y. —

The New York state Senate has voted to give help to family members and others who care for a loved one at home.

The legislation passed in the Senate on Tuesday would allow patients to designate a spouse, child or other relative or friend as a caregiver and require hospitals to provide training to help them look after the patient once they leave the hospital.

Its sponsor, Republican Sen. Kemp Hannon of Long Island, says it will reduce medical costs by improving the care patients can get at home.

The legislation is intended to help those who care for elderly adults and other loved ones with chronic illness.

Similar legislation is pending in the Assembly.

AARP-New York called the bill its single biggest priority for the Legislature this year. — AP