A recent study by Johns Hopkins and the University of Michigan highlights a sharp rise in older adults needing care, jumping from 18.2 million in 2011 to 24.1 million in 2022. Concurrently, family and unpaid caregivers increased their care hours by 50%, averaging 31 hours per week by 2022, reflecting nearly full-time commitment. This demographic shift also showed caregivers becoming younger and better educated. The trend of 'aging in place' raises concerns about the undervaluation of caregivers' contributions and potential negative impacts on their economic standing.
The joint study found a significant increase in the number of older adults needing care, from 18.2 million in 2011 to 24.1 million in 2022. This rise coincided with a 50% increase in care hours provided by family and unpaid caregivers, underscoring the growing challenges faced by these caregivers.
Researchers highlighted that as 'aging in place' becomes more prevalent, there's a risk that families may underestimate the professional and personal sacrifices caregivers make, particularly as expectations for care can impact caregivers’ own job prospects.
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