Caregiving
The Effects of Caregiving
In many families, it’s assumed that caregiving for an older adult will be provided by a younger family member. While the experience of caregiving can be rewarding for some, the physical, financial, emotional, and psychological strain of caregiving can have wide-reaching impact on the family and friends of caregivers.
Impact On Caregiver Health
While caregiving can be a rewarding experience in many ways, it also takes a toll on caregivers and their families emotionally, physically, and financially. Caregiving can cause negative health and emotional impacts. Caregivers report higher levels of stress, depression, and resentment toward care recipients over time.
Caregiving can cause negative health and emotional impacts1
Impact On Caregiver's Finances
Financially, caregiving can also be a challenge. Caregivers who help provide financial assistance for a loved one estimate they pay on average almost $10,000 a year for out-of-pocket expenses.1 This includes everything from transportation and personal items to household expenses and payment to informal caregivers or facilities.
Caregivers often provide out-of-pocket financial assistance1
Impact On Caregiver's Livelihood
Additionally, caregiving takes a toll on a caregiver’s career and work life. On average, they miss 7 hours of work per week. That’s almost 18% of a 40 hour work week.1 This impacts not only their income, but their stress level and their ability to provide for their own financial needs.