New AARP Report Reveals 23% of Oregonians Are Caregivers

New AARP Report Reveals 23% of Oregonians Are Caregivers

Data Underscores a Growing Need for Action

MEMBERS ONLY

October 28, 2025

Portland, OR— New AARP caregiving data released today, Caregiving in the U.S. 2025: Caring Across States, finds that more than 23% of adults in Oregon — approximately 790,000 people — are family caregivers, providing largely unpaid and unsupported care to older family members and friends, and children with disabilities or complex medical needs. Most family caregivers in Oregon care for an adult (93%) —most often a parent (47%). Thirteen percent care for a child with complex medical needs. The Oregon data can be found here: Caregiving in the U.S. 2025: Oregon.

“When a loved one needs help, family members, friends, and neighbors step up, that’s what we do,” said Bandana Shrestha, AARP Oregon 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, AARP Oregon is urging policymakers at every level to act now to help family caregivers save money, time and get the support they need.” 

Family caregivers provide $8.7 billion in unpaid care each year in Oregon, 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.

But the toll on our family caregivers is great— financially, physically, and emotionally.

· 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 Oregon, 43% of family caregivers report financial setbacks— taking on debt, draining savings, or struggling to afford basics like food and medicine.

· One in three Oregon caregivers (33%) experience high emotional stress while caregiving. Three in ten (31%) have difficulty taking care of their own health while they focus on their care recipient’s needs.