Caring for America’s seniors isn’t just about facilities and programs — it’s about people. From skilled professionals to family members, caregivers are the foundation of elder care in America. Understanding who they are and what they do is essential to appreciating the challenges and opportunities in our care system.
1. Professional Caregivers
According to USAFacts, 3.5 million home health and personal care aides and 1.4 million nursing home employees provide professional support to older adults. These roles include nurses, therapists, aides, social workers, and support staff.
The work is vital but demanding. With the senior population growing, these jobs are among the fastest-growing in the country, yet often come with modest wages and high emotional demands.
2. Unpaid Caregivers
In addition to professionals, an estimated 37 million Americans provide unpaid eldercare — often adult children, spouses, or friends. These caregivers devote an average of 3.6 hours a day to helping their loved ones, balancing care responsibilities with jobs, children, and other commitments.
Unpaid caregiving can be emotionally rewarding but also overwhelming. Recognizing and supporting these caregivers is critical to maintaining the well-being of both seniors and those who care for them.Quote from Source:
“About 37 million people in the US, or 14% of the population, provided unpaid eldercare between 2021 and 2022.” — USAFacts