Millennial Family Caregivers More Likely to Care for Someone with a Mental or Emotional Health Issue, AARP Report Finds

WASHINGTON, May 22, 2018 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- One-in-four of the nearly 40 million family caregivers in America is a millennial. AARP's latest report, "Millennials: The Emerging Generation of Family Caregivers," spotlights the unique experiences and challenges this generation faces as more support a parent, grandparent, friend or neighbor with basic living and medical needs. According to the report, millennials are more likely to care for someone with a mental health or emotional issue — 33 percent compared to 18 percent of older caregivers. Overall, mental health caregivers face higher emotional, physical and financial strain.

Younger caregivers also face challenges in the workplace because they are less understood by supervisors and managers. On top of spending an average of more than 20 hours a week in their caregiving role, this generation of family caregivers is the most likely to be employed (73 percent). More than half say their caregiving role affected their work in a significant way, says the report.

"Caregiving responsibilities can have an impact on the futures of younger family caregivers, who are at a particular time in their lives when pivotal social and professional networks are being formed," said Jean Accius, PhD, Vice President, AARP Public Policy Institute. "We must consider the unique needs of millennial family caregivers and ensure that they are included in programs and have the support they need to care for themselves as well as their loved ones."  

To read the full release, visit: https://press.aarp.org/2018-5-22-Millennial-Family-Caregivers-More-Likely-Care-Someone-Mental-Emotional-Health-Issue-AARP-Report-Finds

Visit www.aarp.org/caregiving for more resources and information on family caregiving.

About AARP
AARP is the nation's largest nonprofit, nonpartisan organization dedicated to empowering people 50 and older to choose how they live as they age. With a nationwide presence and nearly 38 million members, AARP strengthens communities and advocates for what matters most to families: health security, financial stability and personal fulfillment. AARP also produces the nation's largest circulation publications: AARP The Magazine and AARP Bulletin. To learn more, visit www.aarp.org or follow @AARP and @AARPadvocates on social media.

SOURCE AARP

Related Links

http://www.aarp.org