A new study finds Arizona faces the No. 21 worst family caregiver crisis in America.
As healthcare costs soar, the strain on family caregivers has reached unprecedented levels. Nearly 40 million Americans spend a record 3.9 hours per day caring for aging loved ones — a burden that will only grow as the 85+ population more than doubles to 17.4 million by 2050. CDC data shows caregivers’ own health and well-being is being significantly impacted.
Seniorly, a CareScout company, today released a study on the Unprecedented Caregiver Crisis in America using data from the CDC, Census Bureau, and Genworth Cost of Care Survey.
Five factors were analyzed in all 50 states and D.C.: adults who performed caregiving duties in the last six months, home health costs relative to income, cost of adult day care, multigenerational households, and access to Medicaid home-based care.
No. 21 Arizona:
- Multigenerational households: 4.3% (Rank #8)
- Median daily cost of adult day care: $91 (Rank #16)
- Home health costs relative to median income among households with adults 65+: 1.43x (Rank #23)
- Adults 50+ who are caregivers: 72.5% (Rank #36)
5 Tips to Avoid Caregiver Burnout
- Daily Respite Relief: Caregivers should receive at least a protected 30-minute break each day. Families must coordinate backup support to ensure this time is uninterrupted.
- Use Community Support Systems: Connect caregivers with respite programs, adult day centers, and meal services to lighten their daily workload before burnout sets in.
- Use Caregiver Support Apps: Use caregiver support apps to share appointments, medications, and supplies with the care team.
- Structured Communication: Hold brief, regular check-ins with the care team to clarify roles, discuss challenges, and share responsibilities before stress builds.
- Prioritize the Caregiver’s Health: Include the caregiver’s medical, mental health, and social appointments in the care plan.
