Rising Number of Youth Becoming Caregivers Due to Economic Crisis and Aging Population

According to Connie Siskowski, President of the American Association of Caregiving Youth, an increasing number of youth are becoming caregivers due to the economic situation and the growing need for more complex care among an aging population. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reported a 72% increase in at-home healthcare costs between December 2005 and March 2024. In addition, the National Alliance for Caregiving and the American Association of Retired Persons found that the number of child caregivers under the age of 18 has more than quadrupled, from 1.3 million in 2005 to 5.3 million in 2020. Siskowski, who runs a program in Palm Beach County, Florida, that supports young caregivers, noted that these figures likely underestimate the true scale of the issue. Siskowski’s organization aims to assist these young carers both in school and at home to manage stress and protect themselves. Some young caregivers take on tasks such as cooking, cleaning, feeding, and bathing elderly relatives or those suffering from chronic diseases. These responsibilities can negatively impact academic performance, leading to increased feelings of isolation or sadness, and, in some cases, even dropping out of school. Almost a quarter of high school dropouts cited caring for a family member as their reason for leaving education, according to a 2006 study by Civic Enterprises. Siskowski emphasized that no child in the United States should have to drop out of school because of family caregiving responsibilities. Siskowski also highlighted that the pandemic has increased costs, such as rent and the price of essential items like adult diapers and over-the-counter medication, making it challenging for families. Less support for at-home healthcare and the increased demand for care from an aging population with increasingly complex medical requirements have put pressure on families, resulting in even more young carers. Siskowski suggested that greater support from the federal government would significantly benefit these vulnerable individuals. She added that there is a pressing requirement for recognition and parity for this population.