Millions of North American Caregivers Face Financial, Mental Health Strains

New research highlights the significant financial, emotional, and health challenges faced by family caregivers in the U.S. and Canada. Nearly half of U.S. adults identify as caregivers, with many sacrificing personal spending, retirement savings, and work hours to support loved ones, leading to widespread stress and burnout. Dementia caregivers, in particular, face increased risks of cognitive decline, with younger caregivers showing higher prevalence of risk factors such as smoking, high blood pressure, and insufficient sleep. In Canada, almost 60% of workers doubt their ability to retire, with many experiencing deteriorating mental health due to financial stress and geopolitical instability. Caregivers juggling employment report higher burnout rates and greater use of mental health services compared to non-caregivers, indicating a critical need for targeted support and resources. Experts emphasize the urgency of recognizing caregivers' vital roles and providing meaningful assistance to mitigate these growing burdens.