November Spotlight: Caregiving, Community & Change

November is National Family Caregivers Month—a time to honor the millions of Floridians who provide essential care to loved ones, often without recognition or support. At AARP Florida, we’re proud to stand with family caregivers and advocate for resources, policies, and protections to provide them the peace of mind that they need.

AARP’s newly released Caregiving in the U.S. 2025 report reveals that 63 million Americans now serve as caregivers—a 45% increase over the past decade. In Florida alone, more than 4 million family caregivers provide over $40 billion in unpaid care annually. These caregivers are the hidden backbone of our long-term care system, yet many face financial strain, physical and mental health challenges, and limited access to support. Nearly half report negative financial impacts, and one in five struggles to afford basic needs like food.

When family caregivers have to turn to a nursing home to provide the care that they can’t offer themselves, they deserve to have peace of mind that their loved one will be well cared for. Unfortunately, AARP Florida’s latest report, Change in Ownership and Quality in Florida Nursing Homes, shows a troubling recent trend: as out-of-state private investors buy up Florida nursing homes, care quality often declines. The data reveals that nursing homes acquired by private equity groups saw their average CMS Five-Star Quality Ratings fall from 3.4 to 2.9 stars between 2019 and early 2024, and direct care staffing levels decreased by 13% per resident, resulting in 33 fewer minutes of care per day. Fewer hands-on staff mean more vulnerable residents—and more families left to fill the gaps.

As we advocate for stronger staffing standards and transparency in nursing home ownership, we also recognize the unique challenges faced by military and veteran caregivers. AARP’s updated Military Caregiving Guide offers step-by-step support for those caring for service members and veterans. From navigating VA benefits to building a caregiving team and planning for end-of-life care, this guide is a vital resource for families who often begin caregiving earlier and face more complex needs.

At AARP Florida, we inform, serve, and advocate. Whether it’s sharing trusted information, leading workshops, supporting public policy, or helping neighbors live safer, healthier lives—our volunteers and members make a meaningful impact every day. If you’re looking to get involved, we invite you to join our efforts. Your voice and your time can help shape a better future for caregivers, older adults, and communities across Florida.

Thank you for being part of the AARP family. This November, let’s celebrate caregivers, push for better care standards, and continue building a Florida that works for all ages. For more information, visit our Florida Caregiving Guide.