The Caregiver Burden Spot

Category: Financial and Legal

How to Manage the Financial Stress of Family Caregiving
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Facing the Cost of Care: Carla’s Story

The financial realities of family caregiving can hit hard.

Just a year ago, Carla’s semi-retired husband Mike was still working part-time at the local hardware store. But his diabetes got worse. Then came the stroke.

Now, Mike needs help with almost everything. Carla helps him bathe, eat and get to his doctor appointments.

The bills are adding up fast. Between Mike’s new wheelchair, home care supplies and gas expenses for all the doctor visits, their nonretirement savings are almost gone.

She tried cutting back on nonessential expenses, but that hasn’t eased her financial burden very much. Groceries and Mike’s meds are essential expenses that just don’t wait.

Carla doesn’t complain. “He’d do it for me,” she says. Still, the worry keeps her up some nights. She prays quietly, asking God for strength …

Navigating Financial Stress While Providing Care

Many caregivers pay out of pocket for medical supplies, travel and daily needs with little help. Over time, these costs add up and can cause stress, fear and even guilt.

Millions of caregivers are walking the same path. This post offers encouragement, practical tips and a few gentle reminders that your well-being matters too.

Let’s look at the cost of caregiving and how to ease the financial pressure while still providing the care your loved one needs.

Understanding the Hidden Costs of Caregiving

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Caregiving often starts slowly. At first, you may just need to run a few errands for a loved one who doesn’t live with you. Then, it escalates cooking and delivering meals, helping with doctor visits and more.

Over time, the associated costs grow. It’s not a matter of if this will happen, it’s when.

Here are some common out-of-pocket expenses many family caregivers face:
- Prescription medications
- Home safety equipment, like grab bars or walkers
- Incontinence products and medical supplies
- Transportation to and from appointments
- Meal prep or grocery delivery
- Lost income from reducing work hours or quitting a job
These expenses don’t always feel big at first. But when you add them up over weeks and months, they can create serious financial stress.

Pro Tip: Start tracking your caregiving-related expenses. Even a simple notebook or phone app can help. Knowing where your money goes is the first step to taking back your financial control.

Find financial help you may have missed.

Many caregivers don’t know there are programs that can help. It’s worth the time to explore available resources. Some could cover costs you’re paying for now.

Here are a few places to start:
- BenefitsCheckUp.org – Helps you find federal, state, and local programs like Medicaid, SNAP (food assistance), and utility help.
- Veterans Affairs (VA) – If your loved one is a veteran, the VA may offer caregiver suppor t, respite care, or a monthly stipend.
- Area Agencies on Aging (AAA) – These local offices can connect you with free or low-cost services in your area.
- State Family Caregiver Support Programs – Some states provide training, counseling and small grants to help cover caregiving costs.
Trust me. Help is out there. I found out that often you just have to know where to look. Read more about my experience with BenefitsCheckUp.org.

Pro Tip: Don’t be afraid to ask questions. Contact your local senior center or social services organization. They’re equipped to help you find what’s available.

Set boundaries with your budget — and your heart.

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When you love someone, it’s hard to say no. You may feel guilty for not doing or giving more. But you have to take care of yourself too.

Creating a caregiving budget can help you continue giving care without burning out or going broke.

Here’s how to get started.
1. List all caregiving costs for the month.
2. Set a spending limit based on your income.
3. Look for expenses you can cut or find alternatives. For example, can you access free transportation services or buy medical supplies in bulk to reduce their overall costs?
4. Revisit your budget monthly.
Also, be honest with family members. Let them know when the increasing expenses become too much for you to handle alone. Ask if they can help, even in small ways.

Could someone pitch in for groceries once a month? Could another family member cover one medication cost?

Pro Tip: Use “I” statements when you talk to family. For example, “I’m finding it hard to keep up with some of the costs. Could we talk about ways to share the expenses?”

Small Money-Saving Habits That Add Up

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You don’t need to overhaul your whole life to ease financial stress. Small changes can lead to big relief over time.

Here are some budget-friendly ideas:
- Buy generic items. Store-brand medications and products are often much cheaper than name brands.
- Use community services. Some churches or nonprofits offer free meals, transport, or help with chores.
- Plan meals well in advance. Weekly meal planning can save on food waste and last-minute takeout.
- Set up auto-refill prescriptions. This prevents missed doses and extra trips to the pharmacy.
- Ask about senior discounts. Many stores offer discounts, even on medical supplies.
You’re doing your best. Finding ways to save on caregiving costs doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice quality or your loved one’s safety. Saving is a way to care for yourself as much as you care for others.

Start managing the financial stress of caregiving today.

Caring for someone you love can feel like a full-time job on top of everything else you already have going on in your life. It’s okay to feel overwhelmed by the cost of caregiving. That’s human.

Start with a phone call, a budget plan or a conversation with your family. Each step moves you closer to relief.

Managing the Stress of Caregiving Costs FAQ

What are the average costs of family caregiving?

Many caregivers spend around $7,000 to $10,000 per year out of pocket. Costs vary based on medical needs, supplies and any lost wages.

Can caregivers get paid for their work?

In some cases, yes. Some Medicaid programs and the VA offer payments to family caregivers. Check your state’s programs or talk to a social services organization.

How can I ask my family for financial help without feeling guilty?

Use open, honest communication. Focus on the shared goal of caring for your loved one. Start with small asks and build from there.

Are there free resources for family caregivers?

Yes. Local area agencies on aging, nonprofits and faith-based groups often offer free support, classes or supplies.

What’s one thing I can do today to reduce financial stress?

Start tracking your caregiving expenses. Awareness is the first step toward taking back control and asking for help.
June 5, 2025
The Real Cost of Family Caregiving: What You Need to Know
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Caring for someone you love is a beautiful thing. But it often comes with hidden costs, especially financial ones. Many caregivers don’t realize how much they’re spending on family caregiving until it starts to affect their financial bottom line.

Across the U.S., millions of family members provide unpaid care. In fact, caregivers contribute over $873 billion in unpaid labor every year. That’s more than companies like Apple or Amazon make in a year.

In this post, we’ll look at why caregiving is getting more expensive. We’ll also share five simple ways to protect your finances while still being there for the ones you love.

Why Caregiving Costs Keep Growing

At first, caregiving may just mean driving to appointments or picking up needed medicine. But over time, that role can grow. You may end up handling bills, giving daily care or managing your loved one’s medications.

Most caregivers don’t get paid for this work. Many even use their own money. Some spend more than 25% of their income on care.

Let’s put that into perspective: If you make $50,000 a year, that’s over $12,000 that’s going to caregiving expenses. That adds up fast.

Hidden Costs That Sneak Up on You

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Some costs like prescriptions or doctor visits are easy to see. Others are harder to track. Think about things like lost job promotions, fewer work hours or even having to switch to a lower-paying job to have time for caregiving.

Over time, these changes can cost women caregivers around $295,000 in lost wages. That doesn’t even include lost retirement savings or extra debt.

Many caregivers end up using credit cards or dipping into savings just to get by. These choices can delay financial goals for years.

Why Women and Minorities Often Pay More

Women make up about 60% of caregivers. Many step in without thinking twice, even if it means stepping back from their careers.

Black and Latino caregivers often face more financial strain. Latino families, for example, may spend up to 47% of their income on care. That’s nearly half their paycheck.

Read more about the financial impact on Latino caregivers.

This shows why better support systems are needed. But until they improve, families need ways to protect themselves now.

Why Financial Planning Matters

When caregiving begins, you may not realize how much it will cost. But without a plan, expenses can sneak up and affect every part of your life, from groceries to retirement.

Even if you think caregiving is short-term, it helps to plan ahead. A little preparation now can make a big difference later.

Here are five practical tips to help you manage the cost of caregiving.

1. Understand the full financial picture.

Start by reviewing your loved one’s finances. Talk with them about your findings, if possible. Know what money is coming in and what’s being spent.

Make a list of:
- Income, including Social Security and any pension
- Savings and insurance
- Monthly bills and debt
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Also, check for legal documents like:
- Power of Attorney
- A will or trust
- Advance health care plans
These help you avoid confusion later and allow you to make decisions legally if needed.

2. Make a caregiving budget.

Caregiving often means extra spending for things like gas and food. You may even need to account for any unpaid time off work.

Build a budget just for caregiving. Include:
- Medicine and supplies
- Doctor visits and insurance costs
- Transportation
- Home safety tools
- Paid help or respite care
You can use free apps or talk to a financial advisor who knows elder care. Also, track how caregiving affects your personal finances so you can make smart choices.

3. Find free or low-cost help.

You don’t have to do it all alone or pay for it all yourself.

Try these resources:
- Area Agency on Aging: Local services like rides, meal delivery and breaks for caregivers
- BenefitsCheckUp.org: Helps find government programs
- Veterans Aid and Attendance: Monthly support for veterans needing care
- State Medicaid: In some states, family caregivers can get paid
- Disease-specific groups: Help from Alzheimer’s, cancer and other support programs
If it feels confusing, you can ask a social worker or eldercare advisor to help guide you.

4. Boost income and stretch resources.

Even with a fixed income, there may be ways to ease the load.

Check if your loved one qualifies for:
- Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP, for help buying food
- Medicare Savings Programs for healthcare assistance
- Prescription help for reducing medication costs
Also, review their insurance yearly. In some cases, a reverse mortgage or house-sharing option might help. Just be sure to talk with a financial expert first.

You may also be able to get paid as a caregiver through Medicaid, Veterans Affairs or long-term care insurance. It may not be a full income, but every bit helps.

5. Don’t forget your own finances.

Caregivers often put their own needs last. But don’t forget that your future matters, too.

Protect your finances by:
- Keeping your bank accounts separate.
- Tracking caregiving costs.
- Asking a tax pro if you qualify for caregiving deductions.
- Avoiding early retirement withdrawals unless you truly need them.
- Consulting a financial advisor.
- Using Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) or Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) through your employer, if available.
Even small savings add up over time. Your future self will thank you.

Caregiving deserves more support.

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Caregivers are doing essential work, and it’s often without pay or adequate training. And while the emotional rewards can be great, the financial stress is real.

So many vulnerable people rely on unpaid family caregivers, yet these caregivers receive little help. Until that changes, families must take smart steps to protect themselves.

If you’re in the thick of caregiving now, know this: You’re not alone. And there’s help out there.

And don’t forget the mental and emotional impact of family caregiving. You’ll need support for that too.

You Matter, Too

Take one small step today. Make a plan, ask for help or start a budget. These little actions can make a big difference.

You’re more than a caregiver. You’re a person with needs, dreams, and a future worth protecting.

Family Caregiving and Finances FAQs

How much is unpaid family caregiving worth in the U.S.?

More than $873 billion each year. That’s about 3.2% of the national economy.

What do caregivers spend the most money on?

Costs include medicine, home care, gas, groceries and safety updates to the home.

Can I get paid to care for a loved one?

Yes, in some states. Programs like Medicaid and the VA may offer payments. Some insurance plans do too.

Are there tax breaks for caregivers?

You may be able to deduct some care costs or use special savings accounts. Talk to a tax professional for more guidance.

Where can I find help near me?

Check with your local Area Agency on Aging, BenefitsCheckUp.org or groups that support specific illnesses.
May 15, 2025
Why Managing Caregiver Burden Is Important
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What is caregiver burden?

Monique never imagined she would become her mother’s full-time caregiver. At first, it was just small favors — things like helping her mom shop for groceries or driving her to doctor’s appointments. Within a couple of years, Monique was managing medications, preparing meals and assisting her mom with daily tasks. The exhaustion crept in slowly, until one day, she realized she hadn’t had a full night’s sleep in months. The stress, loneliness, and financial strain weighed on her more than she ever expected.

Caregiver burden refers to the emotional, physical, financial, and social strain experienced by those providing care for loved ones. Whether caring for an aging parent, a disabled spouse, or a chronically ill family member, caregiving is often an unpaid and unplanned responsibility that millions take on out of love or necessity.

While caregiving can be fulfilling, it also brings challenges. It can lead to burnout, stress and financial hardship. Recognizing and addressing caregiver burden is essential for both the caregiver’s well-being and the quality of care they provide.

If you’ve found your way to this page, you likely can relate.

In a way, family caregiving can be like weightlifting. For safety’s sake, a wise weightlifter will sometimes have a “spotter” standing by — someone who’s ready to help if the weight gets to be too much to handle.

This blog is a shoutout to any family caregiver who may feel the need for an emotional “spotter” when their caregiver burden seems to be too much.

If you’re a family caregiver, please read on.

The Hidden Costs of Caregiving

The Emotional and Mental Health Impact

Many family caregivers experience anxiety, depression, sleep disturbances and social isolation. Studies show that 14.5% of caregivers suffer from at least two weeks of mental distress per month. Chronic stress from caregiving can also increase the risk of serious health conditions like heart disease and strokes.

Financial Strain

Caregiving often has a negative impact on employment and forces many to reduce work hours or leave jobs. On average, caregivers spend $7,242 annually on out-of-pocket expenses, and unpaid caregiving in the U.S. is valued at $600 billion per year.

Calculate the value of family caregiving in your area.

Physical Health Decline

The constant demands of caregiving can lead to weight fluctuations, chronic pain, and fatigue. Caregivers also face an increased risk of conditions like arthritis.

Takeaway: Caregiving affects every aspect of life, making stress management crucial.

Source: Statista

Recognizing the Signs of Caregiver Burnout

Burnout occurs when stress becomes overwhelming and leads to exhaustion. Common signs include:
- Constant fatigue
- Difficulty sleeping
- Loss of joy or patience
- Feelings of hopelessness or isolation
- Increased reliance on caffeine, alcohol or medication
Takeaway: Identifying early warning signs can help prevent full-blown burnout.

How to Manage and Reduce Caregiver Burden

Let’s be honest: You will often face challenges as a caregiver. And sometimes you may even feel like giving up. But with a little thought, homework and some planning, you can cope.

Seek support.
- Join a caregiver support group — online or in person.
- Talk to a therapist or counselor.
- Accept help from family and friends.
Prioritize self-care.
- Eat well, get enough sleep, and exercise.
- Take breaks and schedule downtime.
Learn to manage time and delegate.
- Create routines and set realistic expectations.
- Utilize respite care services.
- Explore technology like mobile apps and other digital tools designed to help you manage stress.
Make financial planning a habit.
- Research tax credits for caregivers. For example, learn more about the Credit for Caring Act.
- Look into grants and assistance programs.
Takeaway: Self-care isn’t selfish — it’s essential for sustainable caregiving.

Looking Ahead: Changing the Narrative on Caregiving

Society often expects family caregivers to manage without support. However, policy changes and increased awareness can improve access to financial aid and healthcare support. Caregivers should advocate for better resources and services.

You’re not alone. Seeking help is a sign of strength.

Caregivers Matter Too

Managing caregiver burden is essential for your health and well-being. Try taking one small step today. Call a friend, research financial aid or schedule a self-care activity. It can make a big difference.

Remember: As a family caregiver, you’re doing an incredible job. Don’t forget to take care of yourself, too.

My two brothers and I have each had unique experiences with caregiving. We know firsthand its joys as well as the toll it can take. The caregiver burden is real. And we’re here to spot you.

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Know a caregiver who could use a spot today? Share this post.
April 9, 2025
How to Research Benefits for Your Loved One Using BenefitsCheckUp
An Eye-Opening Caregiver Moment

In 2012, I faced a stressful caregiving challenge with one of my aging siblings. He was legally blind, financially challenged and he lived alone. I knew he had to qualify for some benefits programs, but I was overwhelmed with the question of where to start in getting him some help.

A short time later, I received a random email about a government website that would help me up my caregiving game. Here’s the 411.

Finding Benefits Programs for Aging Loved Ones

Caring for an aging loved one or someone with a disability can be overwhelming. Many families don’t realize there are helpful senior benefits and programs available that can ease financial stress. These programs can help cover costs like food, medicine, housing, health care and utilities.

One of the best tools for finding these resources is BenefitsCheckUp. It’s a free service created by the National Council on Aging, or NCOA. This easy-to-use tool helps connect older adults with benefit programs in their area.

In this post, I’ll walk you through how to use BenefitsCheckUp to find support for your loved one. Whether you’re looking for food assistance or help paying for prescriptions, this guide can help you get started, because managing caregiver stress is important.

Getting Started with Benefits Programs Research

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What BenefitsCheckUp Does

BenefitsCheckUp was designed to help people over 60 and those with disabilities find the help they may qualify for. Millions of older adults miss out on support simply because they don’t know what’s available. This tool connects users with over 2,500 public and private benefits programs across the country.

Some examples of benefits it can help you identify include:
- Food assistance through the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP
- Help paying for prescription medications
- Health care savings through Medicare programs
- Utility bill assistance
- Support with housing or rent
These programs are often based on income, household size, or medical need. BenefitsCheckUp helps you figure out which ones your loved one may be eligible for — without having to search each one individually.

How the Screening Process Works

Start by going to benefitscheckup.org and entering your ZIP code. This allows the tool to show only the programs available in your loved one’s area. You can then answer a few questions about their age, income, medical expenses and other basic information.

After answering the questions, you’ll receive a free, personalized report. This report outlines the benefit programs they may qualify for and what steps to take next. You can even email the report to yourself or download it as a PDF to share with family members or caregivers.

Visit BenefitsCheckUp and start the screening today. It takes just a few minutes and could help your loved one save money and get the help they need.

Navigating the Application Process

Reviewing and Using Eligibility Results

Once you complete the screening on BenefitsCheckUp, you’ll get a personalized results report. This report shows which benefits programs your loved one may qualify for and how to apply. It includes:
- Names of programs and a short description of each
- Eligibility status—whether your loved one likely qualifies
- Links to apply online or download application forms
- Contact information for the agency offering the benefit
The tool gives you choices. You can apply online directly through an agency’s website, call them for more information, or print forms to send by mail. You can also save the report to your device or print it out for later use.

This step helps you move from research to action—so your loved one can start getting the help they need.

Types of Benefits Programs Available

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BenefitsCheckUp connects you to a wide range of senior benefits. Here are some of the most common programs available:
- SNAP — Helps pay for groceries
- Medicare Savings Programs — Lowers Medicare premiums and out-of-pocket costs
- Prescription Assistance — Offers discounts, rebates and coupons for medications
- Utility Bill Support — Helps with home heating and cooling costs
- Housing and Rental Aid — Assists with rent or finding affordable housing options
You can explore different categories based on your loved one’s needs. The tool organizes options into easy sections like “Food & Nutrition,” “Health Care,” “Housing,” and “Income Assistance.”

Go back to your report and check which programs matter most to your loved one. Choose one or two and follow the steps to apply right away.

Practical Tips and Support

Is BenefitsCheckUp legit?

Still sounds too good to be true, huh?

If this is your first time using BenefitsCheckUp, you probably have questions. Here are a few of the most common ones.
- Is BenefitsCheckUp free? Yes, it’s 100% free to use. There are no hidden costs or fees.
- Is my information safe? Yes. The site is private and confidential. Your answers are not shared without your permission.
- Can I apply directly on the website? For most programs, no. But the site gives you direct links to the official applications or tells you how to apply.
- Can I use the tool for someone else? Yes! You can answer the questions for your parent, grandparent or other loved one. Just be sure the answers apply to their specific situation.
BenefitsCheckUp makes the process simple and stress-free. You don’t need to be an expert in benefits programs — just follow the steps and the tool does the hard work.

Getting Personalized Help

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Still think you need more help? BenefitsCheckUp offers several ways to get personal support if you’re unsure about the next steps:
- Live Chat — Use the “Chat With Us” button to talk to a support person online.
- Phone Support — Call the hotline at 1-800-794-6559 (Monday–Friday, 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. ET).
- In-Person Help — Visit a local Benefits Enrollment Center to speak with someone face-to-face.
These options are great if you’re helping a loved one who isn’t tech-savvy or if you need guidance through the application process. You can also ask about special cases, like support for disabled individuals or grandparents raising grandchildren.

If you’re stuck or unsure about the results, don’t hesitate. Use the chat or call the hotline to get friendly, expert help.

Take the first step in researching benefits programs.

Supporting a loved one through aging or health challenges is hard, but finding financial help shouldn’t be. Thanks to BenefitsCheckUp, researching senior benefits has never been easier. Within a few minutes, you can find out what help is available and how to get it for yourself or your loved one.

I did.

Whether you’re looking for food assistance, prescription savings or help with housing, this tool brings valuable benefits programs to your fingertips. Take the first step today and empower your loved one to live with dignity, security and peace of mind.

To get started, visit BenefitsCheckUp.org.

BenefitsCheckUp FAQ

What types of senior benefits can I find using BenefitsCheckUp?

BenefitsCheckUp helps you find many kinds of support, including food assistance, help with medical bills, prescription savings, utility bill support and housing programs. It’s designed to match older adults with the benefits programs they may qualify for based on where they live.

Can I use BenefitsCheckUp for someone else, like my parent or grandparent?

Yes, you can! If you’re helping a loved one, just answer the questions based on their personal information. This is a great way to support someone who may not be comfortable using the internet.

Do I need to give my Social Security number or personal documents?

No, BenefitsCheckUp does not ask for your Social Security number. The tool keeps your information private and does not require documents to do a benefits screening. However, the agency you apply to may ask for this later during the application process.

Is BenefitsCheckUp only for people over 65?

BenefitsCheckUp is mainly for adults age 60 and older, but some benefits programs listed do not have age limits. People with disabilities and certain low-income households may also qualify for support through the site.

What if my loved one doesn’t use a computer — how can they get help?

No problem. You can call the BenefitsCheckUp support line at 1-800-794-6559 to speak with someone directly. You can also visit a local Benefits Enrollment Center to get help in person.
April 7, 2025