Employers Offer More Paid Leave and Support for Caring for Elderly Relatives

New programs aim to help workers balance work and family responsibilities

Published on Feb. 25, 2026

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A growing number of employers are offering paid leave and other support programs to help workers care for elderly family members, as the population ages and more people find themselves in the 'sandwich generation' balancing work and family responsibilities.

Why it matters

As the U.S. population continues to age, with more people living longer, the need for workers to care for elderly relatives is increasing. Providing paid leave and other benefits can help employees manage these responsibilities without having to choose between their job and caring for a loved one.

The details

Many companies are now offering paid family leave, eldercare benefits, and flexible work arrangements to help employees balance work and family obligations. These programs can include paid time off to care for a sick relative, access to in-home care services, and the ability to work remotely or adjust schedules.

  • The number of Americans aged 65 and older is projected to nearly double from 54 million in 2019 to 95 million by 2060.

The players

Debra Whitman

An employee who had to travel for work when her father was suddenly hospitalized.

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What’s next

As the population continues to age, experts expect more companies to offer expanded benefits and support for employees caring for elderly relatives.

The takeaway

Providing paid leave and other benefits to help workers care for elderly family members can be an important way for companies to support their employees and retain talent in an aging society.