#United States #Family Caregivers #Jackson #Caregiving Data #AARP Mississippi

New Insights on Caregiving in Mississippi

As we approach National Family Caregivers Month, fresh statistics from AARP Mississippi underscore the significant role family caregivers play in the state. These findings, part of the report "Caregiving in the U.S. 2025: Caring Across States," reveal that roughly 34% of adults in Mississippi, equating to about 761,000 individuals, are involved in caregiving, primarily without financial compensation or adequate support.

"When a loved one is in need, family, friends, and neighbors instinctively step up to assist, which is commendable," stated Kimberly L. Campbell, the State Director at AARP Mississippi. However, the reality is that many caregivers operate in isolation, often jeopardizing their own well-being—financial, physical, and emotional.

Caregiving in Mississippi entails a vast array of responsibilities, from assisting with daily activities such as bathing and meal preparation to managing medications and organizing transportation. Alarmingly, most family caregivers receive little or no formal training for these intricate tasks. In financial terms, they provide an astonishing $5.6 billion worth of unpaid care annually, which enables their loved ones to remain in familiar surroundings and communities—a preference shared by many seniors.

Nevertheless, the burden of caregiving is substantial:

• - 80% of caregivers are using their personal finances to cater to their loved ones’ needs, and on average, they spend about $7,200 each year, which represents 25% of their income.
• - Nearly 47% of family caregivers have reported facing financial setbacks, which include accruing debt and draining savings to stay afloat.
• - Additionally, 56% of caregivers are juggling their caregiving duties alongside full or part-time employment, resulting in many being forced to reduce their work hours or exit the workforce altogether, which could potentially threaten their long-term financial stability.

In light of this situation, AARP Mississippi is actively advocating for critical policy changes aimed at alleviating some of the financial and emotional strains endured by family caregivers. Proposed legislative measures include the Credit for Caring Act, which suggests a tax credit of up to $5,000 for working caregivers, and the Lowering Costs for Caregivers Act, which seeks to broaden the flexibility in spending accounts for health-related expenses.

This National Family Caregivers Month, AARP Mississippi encourages community members to recognize the valuable contributions caregivers make and to rally for necessary changes. The organization invites individuals to join the I Am A Caregiver movement and voice the need for policies that support caregivers at a systemic level.

To assist family caregivers, AARP has developed several resources:

• - State-by-state Family Caregiver Resource Guides are available to help caregivers access essential programs, services, and agencies in their communities.
• - The AARP online Caregiving Hub offers an array of tools and information in both English and Spanish.
• - The partnership with United Way Worldwide provides caregivers with access to local services through the 211 helpline.
• - AARP’s designated caregiving Facebook group creates a platform for caregivers to connect, share experiences, and provide mutual support.

AARP's mission to empower individuals aged 50 and above and their families remains steadfast. Through these advocacy efforts and resources, the organization strives to improve the quality of life for caregivers across Mississippi and beyond.

For further information and to discover the wealth of resources available, please visit AARP's official website or check out their resources in Spanish at AARP en Español.