How hard it is to be a family caregiver depends heavily on the state you live in, according to a state-by-state report from AARP and the National Alliance for Caregiving released in late October 2025. Disability Scoop reported on it Oct. 31.
State-by-state differences
The report estimates 63 million family caregivers in the U.S., nearly a quarter of adults. The share ranges from 20% in Washington, D.C., to 34% in Mississippi. About 18% of family caregivers are paid for some of their help, often through Medicaid self-direction waivers, from 10% in Iowa to 28% in New Jersey. Almost half provide high-intensity care, and 28% give 40 or more hours a week, led by Tennessee at 37%. Financial strain affects 59% of family caregivers in Georgia but 34% in Minnesota. The groups urged policymakers to offer compensation and other financial relief.
Why this matters for providers and DSPs
Family caregivers and DSPs often support the same people. Where state policy leaves families strained, demand for respite, in-home supports and agency staff grows, and providers can use these state figures to plan services and make the case for funding.