A caregiver is, simply put, someone who takes on the burden and responsibility of caring for an elder friend or family member. There are 65.7 million caregivers in the United States, and 14.9 million of them are caring for someone with Alzheimer’s or dementia.
Taking on the role of being a caregiver should not be a quick and easy decision. While you may not want your loved one to age in a nursing home, acknowledging the emotional, physical and financial concerns that are part of becoming a caregiver is very important.
Some facts about caregivers include:
- The average age of a caregiver is 48
- The average age of a caregiver caring for someone over the age of 50 is between 50 and 64
- 64% of caregivers were employed and gave up working to become a caregiver
- Caregivers spend an average of 20.4 hours a week directly providing care
- Most caregivers will not ask for help
- As many as 23% of all caregivers are physically abusive to the person they care for
Caregivers need respite, support and the money to manage the affairs of the person they care for. Before you make the decision to commit to becoming a full-time caregiver, speak with an elder law attorney to ensure you understand the responsibilities and that the person you care for has a solid plan in place for the future.
