AARP Report: Family Caregiving in Mississippi Valued at $9.4 Billion Annually

New data highlights the essential economic role of unpaid family caregivers in the state's long-term care system.

Apr. 1, 2026 at 2:24am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A new AARP report finds that 690,000 family caregivers in Mississippi provide 620 million hours of unpaid care annually, work that would be valued at $9.4 billion per year if paid in the marketplace. This care is essential for helping older adults live independently at home, but often comes at a significant cost to caregivers' own health and financial security.

Why it matters

Without family caregivers, many more Mississippians would rely on expensive institutional care, driving significantly higher costs for taxpayers and public programs. AARP is highlighting the critical economic value of this unpaid labor and advocating for more support and resources for family caregivers.

The details

The report finds that 690,000 family caregivers in Mississippi provide 620 million hours of care each year for older parents, spouses, neighbors, and other loved ones. This work would be valued at $9.4 billion annually if paid at the average rate of $15.16 per hour. Across the U.S., the estimated value of family caregiving ranges from $14.12 per hour in Louisiana to $27.05 per hour in Washington, reflecting regional differences in wages and the cost of care.

  • The new AARP report, titled 'Valuing the Invaluable 2026', was released on March 31, 2026.

The players

AARP Mississippi

The state chapter of the national nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering people 50 and older.

Kimberly L. Campbell, Esq.

The AARP Mississippi State Director, who commented on the importance of family caregivers as an economic force in the state.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Family caregivers are a major economic force that fill critical gaps in our health care system. The economic value they provide now exceeds $9.4 billion annually, yet this care often comes at significant cost to caregivers' health and financial security, and well-being. AARP is elevating this important issue and fighting to save family caregivers time and money.”

— Kimberly L. Campbell, Esq., AARP Mississippi State Director

What’s next

AARP continues federal and state advocacy to save caregivers money, time, and get them the support they deserve. AARP also helps families navigate caregiving challenges by connecting them to trusted resources through its partnership with United Way Worldwide.

The takeaway

This report highlights the immense economic value of family caregiving in Mississippi, which exceeds $9.4 billion annually. However, this unpaid labor often comes at a significant cost to caregivers' own health and financial security. Policymakers and community organizations must work to provide more support and resources for these essential workers who are the backbone of the state's long-term care system.