Ahead of National Family Caregivers Month, AARP Illinois Releases State-Level Data Detailing Caregiving Prevalence

“When a loved one needs help, family members, friends, and neighbors step up, that’s what we do,” said Philippe Largent, AARP Illinois State Director. “But too often, caregivers carry this responsibility alone, often putting their finances, health and jobs at risk. As our state population ages, the demand for care will only grow. With the release of this new data and ahead of the 2026 legislative session, AARP IL is urging policymakers at every level to support the Illinois Family Caregiver Tax Credit to act now to help family caregivers save money, time and get the support they need.”

Family caregivers provide $21 billion in unpaid care each year in IL, helping family members live independently at home and in their communities—where they want to be. Their caregiving responsibilities range from bathing and meal prep to managing medications, arranging transportation and handling medical tasks, with little or no training. According to the new 2025 AARP Illinois caregiving data, family caregivers provide critical support — 82% help with transportation, 78% with grocery shopping, 74% with housework, and 70% with managing finances.

While family caregivers provide essential daily support that keeps loved ones safe and independent, the demands of caregiving often come at a personal cost.

• 80% of caregivers pay out of their own pockets to help meet their loved ones’ needs, averaging $7,200 each year, or 25% of their income.
• In IL, 47% of family caregivers report financial setbacks— taking on debt, draining savings, or struggling to afford basics like food and medicine.
• 62% of Illinois caregivers are also juggling full- or part-time jobs. Many must reduce work hours or leave the workforce entirely due to caregiving responsibilities, jeopardizing their own long-term financial security.

AARP Illinois is fighting for commonsense solutions that save family caregivers money and time while expanding the support they need and deserve.

• Provide financial relief to caregivers through an Illinois Family Caregiver Tax Credit to help family caregivers with out-of-pocket expenses.
• Help caregivers easily navigate caregiving and long-term care resources through the Illinois Caregiver Portal, ensuring their loved ones receive the best possible care.
• Expand access to respite services to allow family caregivers to take a break to recharge so they can continue caring for their loved ones, including for those who do not meet income limits for programs like Medicaid.
• Ensure caregivers receive the instruction and guidance they need from health care providers on medical and nursing tasks through the Illinois CARES Act.
• Expand eligibility and affordable access to care at home.

And at the federal level, AARP is working to save caregivers money through the Credit for Caring Act, a proposed federal tax credit of up to $5,000 for working caregivers, and the Lowering Costs for Caregivers Act, which would expand flexible spending and health savings account uses.

This National Family Caregivers Month, AARP Illinois encourages everyone to show support for caregivers and to join the growing movement of Americans raising their voices for change. Join AARP’s I Am A Caregiver movement and tell lawmakers it’s time to support those who care.

To access free caregiver tools and local resource guides, visit:

• AARP’s state-by-state Family Caregiver Resource Guides to help family caregivers access key programs, services, and agencies right in their community.
• AARP’s online Caregiving Hub with tools and information available in English and Spanish.
• AARP and United Way Worldwide’ s 211 program connects family caregivers to essential local services for themselves and their loved ones via the 211 helpline.
• AARP’s official caregiving Facebook group serves as a place for family caregivers nationwide to connect, share practical tips, offer support, and discuss their shared experiences.

To register for upcoming AARP Illinois caregiving events, use the links below. To explore more AARP Illinois events and ways to get involved in your community, visit www.aarp.org/IL.

• Mama Joe Project: Movie Screening and Q & A Panel (in-person event), Register here.
  • Peoria, Wednesday, October 29, 2025, 11:15 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.
  • Canton, Wednesday, October 29, 2025, 5:15 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
  • Effingham, November 10, 2025, 5:15 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.
• Mama Joe Project: Movie Screening and Q & A Panel (in-person event), Register here.
• Caminando Juntos: Caregiving Conference (in-person event): November 1, 2025, 9:00 a.m. - 1:30 p.m., Register here.
• Retirement Planning for Caregivers (online event): Friday, November 21, 2025, 10:00 a.m. to 10:30 a.m., Register here.
• Long-Term Care Legal Guide: Navigating the Essentials with Confidence (online event): Friday, December 5, 2025, 10:00 a.m. to 10:30 a.m., Register here.

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About AARP

AARP is the nation's largest nonprofit, nonpartisan organization dedicated to empowering people 50 and older to choose how they live as they age. With a nationwide presence, AARP strengthens communities and advocates for what matters most to the more than 100 million Americans 50-plus and their families: health security, financial stability and personal fulfillment. AARP also produces the nation's largest circulation publications: AARP The Magazine and AARP Bulletin. To learn more, visit www.aarp.org/about-aarp/, www.aarp.org/español or follow @AARP, @AARPenEspañol and @AARPadvocates on social media.