LANSING — National Caregivers Day is being observed Friday, shining a spotlight on the millions of caregivers in Michigan and across the country who provide essential support to loved ones.
According to AARP Michigan, about 1.6 million adults in the state, roughly 20% of the population, serve as family caregivers, often providing uncompensated care to relatives or friends.
The Public News Service is reporting that many caregivers balance those responsibilities with full-time or part-time jobs, creating emotional and physical strain.
National data show nearly two-thirds of caregivers report high emotional stress, and 45% report significant physical strain as a direct result of caregiving duties.
Organizations such as Compassion & Choices are using National Caregivers Day to recognize both informal family caregivers and professional caregivers, including nurses and doctors.
Advocates are also calling for expanded access to respite care programs to help families manage daily caregiving responsibilities.
National Caregivers Day is observed each year to recognize the contributions of those providing care behind the scenes.