Research on Aging: Family Caregiving Impact

Today’s Research on Aging: Family Caregiving

The impact of caregiving on family members

In the United States, the vast majority of care that allows older people to live in their own homes is provided by family members who do not receive pay for their services. As the older share of the population increases and people live longer with chronic disabling conditions, particularly dementia, meeting the care needs of older Americans will become more challenging for families.

This report highlights recent National Institute on Aging-supported research on the impact of caregiving on family members, the dynamics of caregiving within extended families, and the future need and availability of family care. As policies deemphasize nursing home care in favor of community-based long-term support services, a better understanding of the family’s central role in caregiving is needed. This perspective can help policymakers, health care providers, and planners identify and implement strategies that better meet the care needs of older Americans and improve the lives of the family members who care for them.

Caregiver Availability and Constraints

A variety of trends have contributed to a widening gap between older Americans’ need for care and the availability of family members to provide that care, raising the potential for growing unmet needs, a heavier burden on individual caregivers, and increased demand for paid care. The combined effects of delayed childbearing and longer life expectancy mean more adults in later-middle age may be “sandwiched” between the competing demands of their children and those of their aging parents and parents-in-law. Women—who have traditionally served as parent care providers—are more likely to be employed than in previous generations, limiting their availability, and increasing their time constraints.

How we help

At Her Helping Hand, our mission is to help address this family challenge by providing senior companion services for your elderly family members. We ensure your loved ones stay active, independent and social. We help your elderly family members continue to lead a fulfilling life and stay connected to the world around them.

Learn more about Her Helping Hand services or contact us with your questions.

This research is from the Population Reference Bureau. Read more on this research here http://www.herhelpinghand.com/services/