A Retrospective Study of Healthcare Needs of Unpaid Caregivers in the United States

Introduction: Demand for caregivers is on the rise. In the US, 53 million individuals provided care in 2020. Older adults constitute nearly half of all care recipients and often receive care from a family member. This study identified the health care needs of caregivers regarding health care use, access to resources, and unmet needs. Methods: We used a retrospective, cross-sectional design to examine existing data collected between 2013 and 2018 regarding caregiver experiences. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and a chi-square test of independence. Results: Caregivers were primarily female, White, between the 18 and 64 years of age, and often provided care to family members experiencing physical or mental conditions impacting safety and independence. Additional data were categorized and reported on the state of care, caregiver perceptions, and impact on the dyad. Conclusion: This study provides important insights into caregiver experiences. Occupational therapists can use this information to reach a broader demographic of caregivers currently not well represented in the caregiver data