Ahead of National Family Caregivers Month, AARP California Releases State-Level Data Detailing Caregiving Prevalence in California

[LOS ANGELES] — New AARP caregiving data released today, Caregiving in the U.S. 2025: Caring Across States, finds that 23 percent of adults in California — more than seven million people — are family caregivers, providing largely unpaid and unsupported care to older parents, spouses, and other loved ones.

“When a loved one needs help, family members, friends, and neighbors step up, that’s what we do,” said Michael Murray, AARP California State Director. “But too often, caregivers carry this responsibility alone, often putting their finances, health and jobs at risk. As our state population ages, the demand for care will only grow. With the release of this new data and ahead of the 2026 legislative session, AARP California is urging policymakers at every level to act now to help family caregivers save money, time and get the support they need.”

Family caregivers provide $4.4 billion in unpaid care each year in California, helping family members live independently at home and in their communities—where they want to be. Their caregiving responsibilities range from bathing and meal prep to managing medications, arranging transportation and handling medical tasks, with little or no training.

But the toll on our family caregivers is great— financially, physically, and emotionally.

· 80 percent of caregivers pay out of their own pockets to help meet their loved ones’ needs, averaging $7,200 each year, or 25 percent of their income.

· In California, 48 percent of family caregivers report financial setbacks— taking on debt, draining savings, or struggling to afford basics like food and medicine.

· Six out of 10 California caregivers are also juggling full- or part-time jobs. Many must reduce work hours or leave the workforce entirely due to caregiving responsibilities, jeopardizing their own long-term financial security.

AARP California is advocating for practical solutions that save caregivers time and money while providing the support they need. This year, AARP proudly championed Senate Bill 590, a landmark piece of legislation that expands California’s Paid Family Leave program to include chosen family—recognizing the wide range of caregiving relationships that exist across the state. Under SB 590, workers will soon be able to take paid time off to care for someone who is seriously ill, even if that person isn’t a traditional family member.

And at the federal level, AARP is working to save caregivers money through the Credit for Caring Act, a proposed federal tax credit of up to $5,000 for working caregivers, and the Lowering Costs for Caregivers Act, which would expand flexible spending and health savings account uses.

This National Family Caregivers Month, AARP California encourages everyone to show support for caregivers and to join the growing movement of Americans raising their voices for change. Join AARP’s I Am A Caregiver movement and tell lawmakers it’s time to support those who care.

To access free caregiver tools and local resource guides, visit:

· AARP California Caregiving Resources to help family caregivers access key programs, services, and agencies right in their community.

·  AARP’s online Caregiving Hub with tools and information available in English and Spanish.

· AARP and United Way Worldwide’ s 211 program connects family caregivers to essential local services for themselves and their loved ones via the 211 helpline.

· AARP’s official caregiving Facebook group serves as a place for family caregivers nationwide to connect, share practical tips, offer support, and discuss their shared experiences.

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About AARP
AARP is the nation's largest nonprofit, nonpartisan organization dedicated to empowering people 50 and older to choose how they live as they age. With a nationwide presence, AARP strengthens communities and advocates for what matters most to the more than 100 million Americans 50-plus and their families: health security, financial stabilitypersonal fulfillment. AARP also produces the nation's largest circulation publications: AARP The Magazine and AARP Bulletin. To learn more, visit www.aarp.org/about-aarp/, www.aarp.org/español or follow @AARP, @AARPenEspañol and @AARPadvocates on social media.