AARP Indiana Releases State-Level Data Detailing Caregiving Prevalence in Indiana

New AARP caregiving data released today, Caregiving in the U.S. 2025: Caring Across States, finds that 24% of adults in Indiana — approximately 1.2 million people — are family caregivers, providing largely unpaid and unsupported care to older parents, spouses, and other loved ones. The data can be found here.

“Behind every person who needs care, there’s someone making sacrifices,” said Sarah Waddle, AARP Indiana State Director. “Family and friends often step in, but too many caregivers carry this responsibility alone, jeopardizing their health, finances, and careers. As our state ages, the need for support will only increase.

Family caregivers provide $10.8 billion in unpaid care each year in Indiana, 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% of caregivers pay out of their own pockets to help meet their loved ones’ needs, averaging $7,200 each year, or 25% of their annual income.
• In Indiana, 51% of family caregivers report financial setbacks— taking on debt, draining savings, or struggling to afford basics like food and medicine.
• 63% of our state’s 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 Indiana is fighting for commonsense solutions to save caregivers money and time and provide greater support. 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 the uses of flexible spending accounts and health savings accounts.

This National Family Caregivers Month, AARP Indiana 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’s state-by-state Family Caregiver Resource Guides 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.