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In Sickness and Age: Changing Family Structures and Caregiving (Part 1)
Aug 30, 2024
In this insightful discussion, Tanya Lewis, a senior editor at Scientific American, shares her personal journey as a caregiver for her ailing mother. Joined by Lauren J. Young, also from Scientific American, they delve into the emotional and logistical hurdles caregivers face. They explore the impact of demographic trends on caregiving, focusing on the 'sandwich generation' and systemic issues affecting diverse families. This dialogue highlights the importance of community support and resources, shining a light on the often-overlooked struggles of caregivers.
19:47
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Quick takeaways
- The U.S. faces a caregiving crisis exacerbated by an aging population and fewer family members available to provide support.
- Community-based support organizations are crucial for caregivers, offering resources and connections to alleviate feelings of isolation and stress.
Deep dives
The Caregiving Crisis
Many individuals will experience caregiving responsibilities at some point, yet the U.S. faces a significant caregiving crisis. Approximately one in four adults ages 45 to 64 are caregivers, with more than a third providing over 20 hours of care weekly. The aging population and reduced family sizes exacerbate this challenge, leading to a mismatch in available caregivers relative to those in need of care. This growing trend is a global phenomenon, indicating that the situation extends beyond just the United States.
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