It Takes More Than Love to Care for a Loved One - New report details heavier burdens and fewer supports for WA family caregivers

By Marguerite Ro, AARP Washington State Director

November is National Family Caregivers Month, a chance to recognize the contributions, commitment, and sacrifices made by millions of family caregivers every single day.

MEMBERS ONLY

Across Washington state, more than 1.3 million family caregivers help their older parents, spouses, or other loved ones live independently at home and in their communities—where they want to be. They are the backbone of our long-term care system, spending countless hours driving to doctor’s appointments, picking up prescriptions, cooking meals, managing medications, and much more.

Most family caregivers don’t get paid for helping their loved ones, but they still spend plenty out of their own pockets—and it’s not cheap. A new survey from AARP revealed that nearly half of family caregivers in Washington state (49%) report financial setbacks. Thirty-seven percent report that they have stopped saving, 28% left bills unpaid or paid late, and 27% used up their personal short-term savings due to their caregiving responsibilities.

Report cover graphic.png

In addition to the financial impact, caregiving also takes a physical and emotional toll on those providing care. According to AARP’s report, one in four (25%) report fair or poor health, and sixteen percent (16%) say they have difficulty caring for themselves. Over one in three caregivers (35%) experience high emotional stress while caregiving and one in three caregivers (33%) would like help or information on how to manage the emotional and physical stress of caregiving.

But here’s the thing: while family caregivers do so much for their loved ones, they’re too often overlooked by society and lawmakers as they hold up a broken system. That’s why this month, and every month, AARP Washington is shining a spotlight on family caregivers and calling on lawmakers to pass common sense solutions that will save them money, time, and provide them with more support.

Among the priorities we’re championing: