Caring Across States is a new research from AARP and the National Alliance for Caregiving, which reveals how place can affect the caregiving experience, uncovering stark differences in financial strain, care intensity, and available support in states across the U.S. With nearly one in four adults serving as family caregivers, this state-by-state analysis offers the clearest picture yet of the challenges they face.

For example, the Massachusetts state profile reveals more than 1 million (1,445,000) adults in the Commonwealth provide care to a family member or friend with complex medical conditions or disabilities — one quarter (26%) of adults across the state.

Here are some the reports key findings outlined by AARP:

Caregiving is a widespread reality across the U.S., with millions of adults providing care for loved ones with disabilities or complex medical conditions.

Caregiver experiences vary significantly by state, especially in terms of intensity, financial impact, and access to support.

High-intensity caregiving is common, with nearly half of caregivers providing extensive assistance with daily tasks and spending many hours each week on care.

Financial strain is a major issue, with many caregivers reporting economic hardship and difficulty accessing affordable support services.

Access to paid caregiving is uneven, largely influenced by state policies and programs, leaving many caregivers unpaid despite the intensity of their roles.

Balancing work and caregiving is a challenge, with most caregivers also employed but lacking adequate workplace benefits, especially among hourly workers.

Caregiver well-being is at risk, with widespread emotional stress and health challenges, and limited support systems to address these needs.

Healthcare systems often overlook caregivers, with few being asked about their own needs or those of the person they care for, despite their critical role in care delivery.