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Informal Caregiving, Julie Ann Scott, University Of Maine Center On Aging

Maine Center on Aging Research and Evaluation

With advances in medicine and nutrition resulting in longevity comes increased risk of debilitating diseases, such as cancer, Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, and stroke. Although trained professionals can provide care to these individuals, simple aspects of care may be provided by family members or friends. There are now over 52.4 million informal caregivers in the United States. Although informal caregiving comes with personal rewards, it also has emotional, physical, and financial challenges. This role is underappreciated, yet is crucial to society. Sixty-five percent of older individuals with long-term care needs rely exclusively on family and friends for assistance. The economic …