The number of family caregivers assisting older adults in the U.S. has surged from 18.2 million in 2011 to 24.1 million in 2022, according to a new study published in Health Affairs. Despite this significant rise, the average number of caregivers per older adult has remained stable at about two per individual.

Notably, caregivers in 2022 were more likely to assist younger, male, and better-educated seniors, with a decline in dementia cases among care recipients. While the overall caregiving experience saw few changes in terms of workload and responsibilities, those assisting dementia patients faced increased demands—experiencing a 50% rise in care hours and a 25% increase in co-residence, often leading to employment challenges.

These trends underscore the need for stronger policy support, as families continue to shoulder the growing burden of elder care amid workforce and healthcare system shifts. The findings reinforce the importance of tailored support programs, especially for caregivers of dementia patients, as the caregiving landscape continues to evolve