AARP conducted a survey of registered voters 30 and older across Massachusetts, which highlights who caregivers are, the challenges they face and the solutions that can make a difference.

AARP estimates that there are over 1.4 million family caregivers age 18 and older in Massachusetts. The AARP Massachusetts survey provides more insights into caregivers age 30 and older.

These caregivers help their parents, spouses and loved ones with daily living, medical tasks and emotional support. While caregiving is essential, it often comes at a personal and financial cost.

Seven in 10 feel or felt emotionally stressed, and 37% felt financially strained due to their caregiving.  Nearly 8 in 10 (78%) caregivers have incurred expenses while caregiving. Transportation is the most common expense (63%), and 3 in 10 caregivers have modified their own home or a loved one’s home, have purchased medical equipment or bought prescription drugs.  Even more caregivers have helped with housing costs such as rent, mortgage, utilities or other upkeep expenses (41%).

The AARP Massachusetts survey also found overwhelming bipartisan support for a state tax credit for caregivers (85%), respite care vouchers (74%), the creation of an advisory council on family caregiving (73%), paid care for spouses of care recipients (71%) and increasing funding for home and community-based services (80%).

The average family caregiver in the U.S. spends about 26% of their income on caregiving, which adds up to an average of more than $7,200 a year. Family caregivers do so much for others and sacrifice so much. They save taxpayer money by keeping loved ones out of expensive nursing homes. They deserve some recognition and support from the Massachusetts legislature.

Data tables and further detail are available in this slide deck.