National Caregivers Day Highlights Challenges Facing Family Caregivers

Experts say the caregiver crisis will only worsen as the population ages and the costs of paid care rise.

Published on Feb. 22, 2026

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National Caregivers Day, celebrated annually on the third Friday in February, is an opportunity to raise awareness about the important role of family caregivers and the challenges they face. Experts say the U.S. is facing a caregiver crisis, with an aging population and the high cost of paid care driving more families to provide care themselves. Many family caregivers struggle with the physical, mental, and financial strain of caregiving, and often have to reduce their work hours or leave their jobs entirely.

Why it matters

As the population ages and more older adults want to 'age in place', the demand for in-home care has increased dramatically. However, the high cost of paid care has forced millions of families to provide that care themselves, leading to a caregiver crisis. Family caregivers often face significant physical, mental, and financial challenges, underscoring the need for more support and resources.

The details

Family caregivers provide a wide range of complex medical tasks, yet only about 20% receive any formal training. This puts caregivers at risk of their own health issues, with about one in five reporting fair or poor health. Many also struggle financially, with over a third having stopped saving and others using up their savings or retirement accounts. Around 70% of family caregivers are employed while providing care, often having to adjust their work schedules or even leave their jobs entirely.

  • National Caregivers Day is celebrated annually on the third Friday in February.

The players

Helen Dennis

A nationally recognized leader on issues of aging and the new retirement with academic, corporate and nonprofit experience.

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What they’re saying

“Isn't that just part of being married? My feeling is to let me do what I can do myself. And 'What do I really want? Just to be with her.'”

— 85-year-old ex-Marine care recipient (sbsun.com)

“To hear him sing in the shower and be as healthy as he can be because I love him. It's a tough balance not to take away that which he can do for himself. I don't do well when I am overtired.”

— Wife of 85-year-old care recipient, Family Caregiver (sbsun.com)

What’s next

Experts say the caregiver crisis will only worsen as the population continues to age, underscoring the need for more support and resources for family caregivers.

The takeaway

National Caregivers Day is an opportunity to celebrate and honor the unsung heroes who provide care for their loved ones, often at great personal cost. By raising awareness and advocating for more support, we can help address the growing caregiver crisis and ensure family caregivers have the resources they need.