March 3rd is National Caregiver Appreciation Day, a chance to acknowledge and thank the estimated 43 million caregivers who work to improve the lives of others. Nearly 1 in 4 adults in the United States are reported to be caregivers, with about 1 in 6 adults receiving help. Over half of caregivers for older adults are 50 years old or older. Women of color are more likely to be caregivers, and many are also immigrant women of color.
Caregiving is an in-demand profession, and most caregivers are unpaid. Many report experiencing financial strain, including having difficulty saving and taking on higher debt. Legal assistance, elder rights, and aging services advocates can support caregivers by connecting them to benefits, services, and supports. These NCLER resources can help advocates learn more about these benefits and how to help clients navigate them:
Case consultation assistance is available for attorneys and professionals seeking more information to help older adults. Contact NCLER at ConsultNCLER@acl.hhs.gov.