Quick Facts

An estimated 4.5 million Californians care for a family member (Source: AARP)

Three in five caregivers are women. (Source: CDC)

50% of caregivers work full-time while providing care. (Source: CDC)

1 in 4 caregivers experiences depression (Source: CDC)

1,373,000 caregivers care for someone with Alzheimer's or dementia. (Source: 2024 CA Alzheimer’s Statistics)

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    Caregivers

    Caregivers are the heart of our communities, providing care and compassion to aging family members. Your contributions are invaluable, and it's essential to have the resources that support you every step of the way.

    Caregivers Need to be Cared for Too

    If you're caring for an older adult, you're not alone. More than 1 in 5 Americans provide care for an aging loved one, and in California, 4.5 million caregivers spend nearly 18 hours each week helping older family members or friends. This care adds up to an annual economic value of $81 billion in our state.

    Caring for an older adult is both rewarding and challenging, but there are resources to help make it easier. Caregiver Resource Centers (CRCs) and Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) offer services that provide much-needed support.

    Caregiver Tips: Self-Care

    Image showing self care tips like taking breaks, exercise, finding hobbies and visiting doctor.

    How to Care for a Primary Caregiver

    • Offer to stay with the older adult while the caregiver runs errands
    • Run errands for the caregiver or provide a meal
    • Listen when the caregiver needs to talk
    • Stay with the older adult for a few days so the caregiver can take a vacation
    • Write a card or letter to show gratitude

    How CRCs and AAAs Can Help

    • Respite Care: Take a much-needed break while ensuring your loved one is cared for.
    • Support Groups: Connect with other caregivers who understand what you're going through.
    • Education and Training: Learn techniques to help manage caregiving tasks and improve your loved one’s quality of life.
    • Care Planning Assistance: Get help navigating services and creating a care plan for your loved one.