AARP releases state-level data detailing caregiving prevalence in Wisconsin

AARP caregiving data released on Oct. 28, Caregiving in the US 2025, finds that 23 percent of adults in Wisconsin — approximately 1.1 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 AARP Wisconsin State Director Raj Shukla. “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 Wisconsin 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 $9.2 billion in unpaid care each year in Wisconsin, 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. Consider:

• 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 Wisconsin, 37 percent of family caregivers report financial setbacks — taking on debt, draining savings, or struggling to afford basics like food and medicine.

• 55 percent of Wisconsin’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 Wisconsin is fighting for commonsense solutions to save caregivers money and time and provide greater support. “For years we have fought for a tax credit to help our family caregivers offset some of the many costs they incur each year to keep their loved ones living at home,” Shukla said.

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 Wisconsin 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.

For more information and state-level caregiving profiles, visit: www.aarp.org/pri/topics/ltss/family-caregiving/caregiving-in-the-us-2025-caring-across-states/.