Older Caregivers: Who They Are and How to Support Them

ABSTRACT

Caregivers play a crucial role in providing health and social supports to their family and friends. Older adults who take on caregiving roles are themselves uniquely vulnerable to negative health and financial effects due to their age and underlying health risks. Many caregivers do not receive adequate support – either formally or informally – exacerbating the strains of providing care. Racial and ethnic minority caregivers may be less likely to report receiving support in their role and face additional challenges. We describe these caregivers over 65 and the burdens they face. We recommend community health workers, direct compensation, and normalization of respite care to support these essential care workers in their role and as they age.

KEYWORDS:

• Caregiving
• baby boomers
• aging
• public policy

Key Points

• Caregivers over 65 face greater financial and health risks than younger caregivers

• Community health worker support can bolster the resources of the older caregiver

• Providing financial support and respite services to caregivers can support and sustain older caregivers.

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).

Additional information

Funding

The author(s) reported there is no funding associated with the work featured in this article.