Caregiving is assistance with the activities of daily living given either by a paid provider or, more frequently, by a family member. The provision of such assistance to older adults is often the factor that allows them to remain in their homes.
Family members and other informal caregivers are the largest sources of support for older adults in this country, but changes in family structure and social roles limit the ability of family members to provide that support. While in 2013, there were more than 14 adults of prime caregiving age (i.e., ages 45-64) for every person over the age of 85, by 2050, this ratio will drop to less than four to one. If these trends continue, older adults may have fewer sources of assistance, emotional support, and social interaction in the future. What’s more, caregiving responsibilities often impact the finances, mental and emotional health, relationship dynamics and work-life balance of those providing the care.
Public health programs address a wide variety of health issues, and each of the programs could be assessed to ensure they are adequately meeting the needs of older adults and caregivers.
The collection, analysis, and dissemination of data is a foundational and crucial role for the public health sector at all levels, but comprehensive data on older adult health is not commonly collected across the country and this particularly true for caregiver data.
Intentional and effective communication is important when sharing public health information to promote and support older adult health and wellbeing.
Caregivers and their families can utilize existing support programs without the need for duplicated efforts through the coordination of public health services.
To better address and support the needs of older adults and their caregivers, public health could leverage cross-sector partnerships to align strategies or expand existing programs across the field and beyond.
As the population of older adults continues to grow, the informal and formal caregivers supporting them will need resources and support.