{"id":13562,"date":"2023-03-01T14:00:00","date_gmt":"2023-03-01T14:00:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/allonehealth.com\/insights\/?p=13562"},"modified":"2026-01-21T23:02:22","modified_gmt":"2026-01-21T23:02:22","slug":"bringing-attention-to-young-adult-caregivers","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/allonehealth.com\/insights\/bringing-attention-to-young-adult-caregivers\/","title":{"rendered":"Bringing Attention to Young Adult Caregivers"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

By Barb Furst<\/a>, MA, LICDC, CEAP, LSW, Account Manager, AllOne Health<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

When we think of today\u2019s caregiver, some characteristics come to mind \u2013 a middle-aged female caring for an elderly parent or parent-in-law. We don\u2019t normally expect the caregiver to be a young adult student, caring for an ill, aging, or disabled family member or friend.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

As with other aspects of the post-COVID world, a new generation of caregivers has come onto the scene. According to a two-study report by Harvard\/UHF\/VNS and NAC\/AARP, young adults between 18 and 25 years old represent around 18% of the total number of adult caregivers. Further studies show that the number may be underreported.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Over half of these young caregivers are male, and the average age is 21. All races were represented in these studies. Most young adults are caring for a female relative, most often a grandmother.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Studies also show that young adult caregivers tend to neglect self-care, which is understandable, considering how busy they are. They are also at the height of their physical well-being and may not place a high priority on keeping themselves well. Or they may deny their own challenges.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Recognizing Caregiver Stress<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Prolonged stress can eventually become disabling. To reduce the impact on caregivers, it\u2019s important to recognize early warning signs, which can include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n