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

Richmond, Va. — New AARP caregiving data released today, Caregiving in the U.S. 2025: Caring Across States, finds that 23% of adults in Virginia — more than 1.5 million people — are family caregivers, providing largely unpaid and unsupported care to older parents, spouses and other loved ones. The Virginia data can be found here.

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

Previous research shows that family caregivers provide $14.3 billion in unpaid care each year in Virginia, helping family members live independently at home and in their communities—where they want to be. Their caregiving responsibilities range from bathing and meal preparation to managing medications, arranging transportation, and handling medical tasks, with little to no training. Two-thirds of family caregivers in Virginia (65%) assist with at least one activity of daily living (ADL). ADLs are routine tasks that are essential for maintaining personal independence. All family caregivers help with at least one instrumental activity of daily living (IADL), such as shopping, managing finances, preparing meals and handling transportation.

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 income.

· In Virginia, 45% of family caregivers report financial setbacks— taking on debt, draining savings, or struggling to afford basics like food and medicine.

· 57% 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 Virginia is fighting for common-sense solutions to support caregivers and protect their financial security. During the 2026 Virginia General Assembly, AARP will ask lawmakers to pass legislation creating a program that provides workers with paid family and medical leave, allowing them to care for loved ones without forfeiting their paychecks.

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 Virginia 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.

Throughout November, AARP Virginia is offering in-person and virtual programs for family caregivers. Find the full schedule at https://events.aarp.org/VACare.

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.

AARP Virginia is the largest organization working on behalf of people age 50 and older and their families in the Commonwealth. Learn how AARP is working in local communities at https://www.aarp.org/local. Follow AARP Virginia on social media, @aarpvirginia on Facebook and @aarpva on X.

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 stability and personal 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.