2022 Trends for Caregivers Over the Age Of 50

One of the challenges that many adult caregivers face is that they are put into that role at an age they should be focusing on their own health and self-care. The reality that many Americans face is that they will have around a 1 in 6 chance that they will be in a caregiver role over the age of 50 (source). It is currently estimated that of the 53 million unpaid caregivers that exist in the US today, 79% are over the age of 50. Comparing that to 2015 estimates, the number of caretakers over the age of 50 has increased by 7.6 million.

The age range can be challenging for many caregivers to accept as they have likely seen their own children leave home and their parenting responsibilities lessen. The same study has shown that caregivers over the age of 50 are helping their aging loved ones with 1.7 Activities of Daily Living (ADLs). ADLs will fall into these categories:

• Walking: Helping them get around the home or somewhere outside of the home.
• Feeding: Helping your loved one get food from a plate into their mouth.
• Dressing / Self-Grooming: It can be simply picking their clothes out for them or helping them get the clothes on while helping them maintain personal appearance.
• Toileting: Helping your loved one make it to the restroom but also cleaning oneself properly.
• Bathing: Washing your loved one or aiding them in a bath or shower.
• Transferring: Your loved one requires aid when moving from one bodily position to another. It can be moving from sitting in a chair to lying in a bed.

It is also important to note that the trend of the caregiver living with their aging loved one that requires care has also increased. In 2015, 32% of caregivers over the age of 50 lived with their aging loved one. The most recent numbers put that at 37% which is a pretty dramatic increase when you consider the size of caretakers currently in that role across the US.
Another trend is the increasing volume of caregivers now taking on the role of being their loved ones’ health advocate. The role can range from discussing treatment or healthcare options with their general physician to interacting with government agencies on their behalf. The number of caregivers taking on those responsibilities was 51% but have currently risen to 56%.
You should know that it is currently estimated that three in 10 caregivers over the age of 50 are providing care to their loved one completely alone. The trends we have seen in the short time from 2015 to 2022 illustrate the need to always evaluate the care required of your loved one.
You may think that is your duty to be the caregiver but if your own mental state deteriorates while not providing adequate care, you may need to consider other options. Senior Living Specialists has been helping families across the state of Texas evaluate those needs and provide care options that will work for you and your loved one.