Nearly 1 in 3 Older Americans Are Caregivers & Often Lack Support | Poll Results

A latest poll reveals that nearly one-third of Americans aged 50 and over are regularly providing care to an adult relative or friend facing health challenges or disabilities. However, a significant portion of these caregivers are unaware of, or don’t utilize, available local resources that could ease their burden. The findings, released by the University of Michigan National Poll on Healthy Aging, highlight a growing require for increased awareness and support for family caregivers across the nation.

The poll underscores a critical vulnerability: approximately 20% of these caregivers lack a support network of close friends or family to rely on for their own health needs, effectively navigating caregiving responsibilities without a safety net. This lack of personal support significantly increases the challenges faced by caregivers, potentially impacting their own well-being and the quality of care they provide.

The Growing Caregiving Landscape

The University of Michigan National Poll on Healthy Aging, based on a survey of 2,698 U.S. Adults aged 50 to 95, found that 32% of individuals over 50 are currently serving as caregivers for adults with health or disability needs. This includes 22% caring for someone who doesn’t live with them and 12% caring for someone in their household. The study, conducted in September 2025, provides a snapshot of the evolving demands placed on family caregivers in an aging America.

A parallel report from AARP and the National Alliance for Caregiving, published in July 2025, paints a broader picture of the caregiving crisis. Their findings reveal that 63 million Americans – a nearly 50% increase since 2015 – are currently providing unpaid care to family members or friends. This surge underscores the increasing reliance on family caregivers as the population ages and chronic health conditions grow more prevalent.

Financial Strain and the Need for Support

The financial implications of caregiving are substantial. The University of Michigan poll found that 34% of caregivers experience financial challenges as a result of their responsibilities. This percentage rises to 40% among those aged 50 to 64 and 47% among caregivers who lack a support network for their own health needs. These financial burdens can include lost wages, increased transportation costs, and out-of-pocket expenses for medical supplies and services.

When asked what would most alleviate their challenges, 69% of caregivers identified financial assistance or subsidies for caregiving expenses as the most helpful resource. This highlights the urgent need for policies that provide financial support to families bearing the costs of long-term care. The AARP report also found that one in five caregivers are taking on debt due to caregiving, and half report a negative financial impact.

Awareness Gap: Untapped Resources for Caregivers

Despite the availability of programs designed to support caregivers, a significant awareness gap exists. The University of Michigan poll examined caregivers’ familiarity with and utilization of adult day programs and respite care – two valuable resources that can provide temporary relief and support. Only 9% of caregivers reported that the person they care for had used an adult day program, while 21% hadn’t heard of them at all. Similarly, only 11% of all caregivers had used any form of respite care, with 32% having never heard of it.

Respite care, which provides a temporary break from caregiving through paid or unpaid assistance, was identified as a highly desired service by 39% of caregivers who felt unsupported. Of those who had used respite care, a third cited the need for personal time and stress relief as their primary motivation. The poll director, Jeffrey Kullgren, M.D., M.P.H., M.S., emphasized the role of healthcare providers in bridging this awareness gap by proactively sharing information about available resources with patients and their families.

Michigan-Specific Findings Reflect National Trends

A separate analysis of data from Michigan residents over 50 mirrored the national findings. 31% of Michiganders over 50 serve as caregivers, and 33% report financial challenges as a result. 17% of Michigan caregivers feel they lack the support needed to manage their responsibilities, a figure that rises among those without a strong personal support network. Awareness and utilization of adult day programs and respite care were also low in Michigan, with similar percentages reporting a lack of familiarity with these resources.

Understanding the Challenges of “Sandwich Generation” Caregivers

The AARP report highlights another growing trend: the rise of “sandwich generation” caregivers – those supporting both children and aging parents. Nearly 29% of caregivers fall into this category, facing the dual demands of raising families while simultaneously providing care for elderly relatives. This can create significant emotional, financial, and time constraints, further exacerbating the challenges of caregiving.

What Comes Next: Policy and Practice Implications

The findings from these polls have significant implications for policy and practice. Increased investment in caregiver support programs, including financial assistance, respite care, and adult day services, is crucial. Efforts to raise awareness of these resources and improve access for caregivers are essential. Healthcare providers can play a vital role by proactively identifying caregivers and connecting them with available support.

The Pew Research Center’s recent report on family caregiving also points to the need for policies that address the unique challenges faced by lower-income caregivers, who are disproportionately burdened by caregiving responsibilities. As the U.S. Population continues to age, addressing the needs of family caregivers will be paramount to ensuring the well-being of both caregivers and those they care for. Ongoing research and data collection, such as the National Poll on Healthy Aging, will be critical for monitoring trends and informing evidence-based policies.

For individuals currently providing care, it’s important to remember that seeking support is not a sign of weakness, but a proactive step towards ensuring sustainable caregiving. Resources like the Area Agencies on Aging and the Family Caregiver Alliance can provide valuable information, guidance, and support. Consulting with a healthcare professional to discuss your own health needs and develop a self-care plan is also essential.