Statistics for Family Caregivers in San Diego
I never thought of using the term family caregiver in how I live my life here in San Diego. But I recently read a calendar entry that stated, “November is National Family Caregivers Month.†
I had this feeling of validation as I came to the realization that I am a family caregiver! I am being recognized nationally! Yes, I am a daughter, and yes, I am a sister…but now, come to think of it, the role of family caregiver does stand on its own merits.
How did I get to this point? It just seemed like a natural process in my life, but it may not be a natural process for others who take on this role (or have the role of family caregiver thrust upon them). In particular, caring for elderly family members or loved ones with emotional or physical-challenges can often times be a daunting task.
After visiting the National Family Caregivers Association website and seeing the comprehensive statistics about family caregivers, I now understand why there is a whole month dedicated to those caring for family members. If you are a family caregiver, here are some statistics you may find interesting:
- 59% of family caregivers who care for someone over the age of 18 either work or have worked while providing care.
- 10% of employed family caregivers go from full-time to part-time jobs because of their caregiving responsibilities.
- Both male and female children of aging parents make changes at work in order to accommodate caregiving responsibilities. Both have modified their schedules (men 54%, women 56%). Both have come in late and/or leave early (men 78%, women 84%) and both have altered their work-related travel (men 38%, women 27%).
These statistics made me feel proud to be a part of this large group that is being honored for simply caring for the ones I love the most. Happy National Family Caregivers Month to all of you!
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