As of the most recent data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), 14% of the U.S. population provided unpaid eldercare for someone aged 65 or older during 2023-2024. This represents approximately 38.2 million individuals supporting America's long-term care system. A broader 2025 report from AARP and the National Alliance for Caregiving found that nearly one in four American adults, totaling 63 million people, are family caregivers for an adult or child with complex needs. The majority of these individuals care for older adults, reflecting a significant increase over the past decade.
The Demographics of Older Adult Caregiving
Family caregiving varies based on demographics. The typical family caregiver is often a woman around 50 years old, caring for her mother, and frequently employed. A growing segment are part of the 'sandwich generation,' supporting both children and aging parents.
- Gender and Age: While most eldercare providers are women (55%), men also play a substantial role. Caregivers for older adults are often middle-aged, with many in their 40s and 50s.
- Employment Status: In 2022, 61% of unpaid eldercare providers were employed. Balancing work and caregiving often leads to strain, potentially causing reduced hours, job changes, or leaving the workforce, especially for hourly wage earners with less support.
- Living Situation: Many care recipients live separately from their caregivers, but cohabitation often means significantly more hours spent on caregiving tasks.
The Increasing Intensity and Complexity of Care
Caregiving has become more demanding over time. A rising number of family caregivers provide high-intensity care, including medical and nursing tasks. Many perform these tasks without formal training, increasing risks. The emotional and physical impact is considerable, with caregivers often experiencing stress, depression, and health declines.
Financial Impacts of Unpaid Caregiving
Caregiving is financially challenging for families, though it represents hundreds of billions in economic value annually.
- Direct Out-of-Pocket Costs: Caregivers spend thousands yearly on expenses like medical supplies, transport, and home modifications.
- Lost Wages and Savings: Caregiving can negatively impact careers and finances, with many using retirement funds or taking on debt.
Policy and Support Needs
Addressing the caregiving crisis requires stronger support systems and policies. Programs like the National Family Caregiver Support Program (NFCSP) offer grants for services like counseling, training, and respite care. However, many caregivers are not aware of available resources.
The Rise of Technology in Caregiving
Technology is increasingly aiding caregiving through apps, telehealth, and wearable monitors. However, these tools supplement, rather than replace, human support.
Comparison of Unpaid vs. Paid Caregiving Resources
| Aspect | Unpaid Family Caregivers | Formal/Paid Caregivers |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Motivation | Emotional connection, family obligation | Compensation, professional career |
| Formal Training | Often untrained, learn on the job | Professionally trained and certified |
| Flexibility | Highly flexible, 24/7 availability | Governed by work schedules, shifts |
| Cost | Significant out-of-pocket expenses and lost wages for families | Covered by insurance, personal funds, or government programs |
| Emotional Toll | Higher rates of burnout and emotional stress, especially with high-intensity care | Emotional detachment may be easier, but stress and burnout are still common |
| Policy Support | Supported by NFCSP and specific state acts, but often underfunded | Benefits and wages depend on market and specific programs (Medicaid waivers) |
Conclusion
Understanding what percentage of American families provide about caregiving for their older family members is crucial, alongside recognizing the significant scope and impact of this care. Recent data from reports such as AARP's Caregiving in the U.S. 2025 and the BLS demonstrate that a growing portion of the population bears this responsibility. The burdens on these informal caregivers—financial, physical, and emotional—are substantial. As the U.S. population ages, the need for robust, accessible support, greater public awareness, and effective policies is increasingly urgent to support both caregivers and care recipients.
Additional resources for caregivers
For more information on caregiver support and resources, the Administration for Community Living website is available at https://acl.gov/programs/support-caregivers/national-family-caregiver-support-program.
Note: Statistics may vary slightly between reports due to different methodologies, reporting periods, and populations studied. The AARP report, for instance, uses a broader definition of caregiving for adults with complex needs.
