AARP Pennsylvania Reports Critical Caregiving Need as National Family Caregivers Month Approaches
Understanding Caregiving in Pennsylvania: Key Findings from AARP
As we approach National Family Caregivers Month, recent data from AARP Pennsylvania sheds light on the pressing reality faced by family caregivers in the state. The report titled Caregiving in the U.S. 2025: Caring Across States reveals that nearly one in four adults—approximately 2 million people—serve as caregivers for their loved ones, with many of them providing extensive unpaid support.
The Critical Role of Family Caregivers
Family caregivers are the backbone of Pennsylvania's long-term care system. Their contributions prevent many individuals from entering institutional care and enable them to live independently in their communities. According to Bill Johnston-Walsh, AARP Pennsylvania's State Director, caregivers are performing essential tasks that come at a substantial personal cost. These responsibilities include:
- - Assistance with bathing and dressing
- - Grocery shopping and meal preparation
- - Managing medications
- - Arranging for transportation
- - Handling various medical tasks, often without formal training
Each year, caregivers in Pennsylvania provide an estimated $22 billion in unpaid care, reflecting their commitment to their families. However, this dedication comes with significant challenges that often affect their health, finances, and overall quality of life.
Financial Strain on Caregivers
The financial impact on caregivers cannot be overlooked. About 80% of these individuals are spending their own money to meet their loved ones' needs, averaging around $7,200 annually. This represents roughly 25% of their overall income. Alarmingly, 40% of family caregivers report financial hardships, which include:
- - Depleting personal savings
- - Borrowing money from friends or family
- - Delaying or leaving bills unpaid
Moreover, many caregivers are balancing these demanding responsibilities with full- or part-time jobs. The dual burden often leads them to reduce their working hours or even leave the workforce entirely, which poses a risk to their long-term financial stability.
Solutions on the Horizon
AARP Pennsylvania is advocating for essential solutions to alleviate the pressures faced by family caregivers. The newly launched PA CareKit aims to provide resources and support tailored to their needs. Additionally, there is a push for policy changes such as:
- - Increasing funding from the Lottery to local Area Agencies on Aging
- - Implementing paid family leave
- - Expanding the care-dependent tax credit for caregivers
On a federal level, AARP supports significant legislation such as the Credit for Caring Act, which proposes a tax credit of up to $5,000 for working caregivers, and the Lowering Costs for Caregivers Act, aimed at enhancing flexible spending account utility.
A Call to Action
As we emphasize the vital role of caregivers during National Family Caregivers Month, it's important to join the movement advocating for their support. AARP encourages everyone to participate in the I Am A Caregiver campaign to raise awareness and push for necessary changes that would benefit caregivers across the nation.
To further assist caregivers in accessing essential resources, AARP offers various tools, including:
- - Local caregiver resource guides for finding key programs and services
- - The online Caregiving Hub, which presents valuable information in both English and Spanish
- - The 211 program, which connects caregivers to necessary local services via the helpline
- - An official Facebook group for caregivers to connect, share tips, and support one another
Together, we can work towards a future where family caregivers are provided with the support they deserve, ensuring their well-being and that of their loved ones. Connect with AARP Pennsylvania on social media to stay updated and join the conversation around caregiving support.
About AARP
AARP is one of the largest nonprofit organizations in the United States, dedicated to empowering individuals aged 50 and older to live fulfilling lives as they age. Through its advocacy efforts and community resources, AARP aims to strengthen communities and promote financial stability, health security, and personal fulfillment for millions of Americans and their families.
For more information on AARP's initiatives and resources, visit www.aarp.org/about-aarp/.
Topics Policy & Public Interest）
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