The Numbers:
Working Caregiver
By Dr G. Erowele
There are over 65 million family caregivers in the US. That means that nearly one-third of the U.S. adult population are caregivers. This segment of the population provides an average of 20 hours of care per week – with some providing care around the clock.
You are a caregivers, if you provide unpaid care to another adult child, parent,
grandparent or loved one. With the world getting demographically
older at an alarming rate, it is no surprise we are seeing a growing trend
among those who provide care, the caregivers.
According to the Administration on Aging (AOA), the older population--persons 65 years or older--numbered 39.6 million in 2009. They represented 12.9% of the U.S. population, about one in every eight Americans. By 2030, there will be about 72.1 million older persons, more than twice their number in 2000. People 65+ represented 12.4% of the population in the year 2000 but are expected to grow to be 19% of the population by 2030.
At this time, majority of caregivers are juggling work and caregiving.
What does this mean for employers? There is a need huge need to the growing caregiving workforce. Interestingly, many caregivers are still unaware and for those who work, its part of their everyday lives.
Are you a caregiver? Do you work as well? We want to hear your story!
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