Written by: Rachel Brauner
Caregiving in the U.S. is evolving rapidly, and providers play a critical role in ensuring caregivers are equipped, supported, and connected to the right resources. Building on the insights from Caregiving in the U.S., 2025, this blog focuses on how providers can take action, from leveraging technology and expanding respite care to connecting families with financial assistance and advocating for policy reform.
Leveraging Technology for Care
Technology is transforming how caregivers manage responsibilities. The use of remote monitoring tools, mobile health apps, and telehealth services has grown significantly, increasing from 13% in 2020 to 25% in 2025 (AARP & NAC, 2025). These tools enable better tracking of medication schedules, safety alerts, and care coordination.
Provider Action Steps:
- Recommend trusted tech tools, such as wearable monitors, safety sensors, or medication apps, tailored to caregiver needs.
- Offer how-to training or demonstrations to build caregiver confidence in using digital tools.
- Help caregivers evaluate cost, accessibility, and privacy considerations before adopting new technology.
Expanding Access to Respite and Support Systems
Respite care, temporary relief for caregivers, remains vastly underutilized. Only 13% of caregivers currently access respite services, even though 39% say it would help reduce stress (AARP & NAC, 2025). Barriers include cost, limited local availability, and lack of awareness.
Provider Action Steps:
- Share curated lists of respite providers, funding sources, and programs that lower costs.
- Educate caregivers on eligibility for state-supported respite programs and community-based initiatives.
- Connect families with peer support groups and networks to reduce feelings of isolation.
Policy Shifts and Advocacy Opportunities
Caregivers express widespread support for policies designed to ease financial and workplace burdens. Among their top priorities:
- 69% support tax credits.
- 68% favor direct payments to caregivers.
- 55% support partially paid leave programs (AARP & NAC, 2025).
Providers can amplify these voices by raising awareness of available benefits, connecting caregivers to application resources, and advocating for policy changes that prioritize caregiver well-being.
Financial Education and Resource Navigation
The financial burden of caregiving continues to grow. Many caregivers struggle to balance caregiving costs with household budgets, savings goals, and long-term planning. Financial pressures compound the burden: 31% use savings to cover costs, 22% take on additional debt, and 19% delay paying bills (AARP & NAC, 2025). Providers can make a measurable difference by guiding caregivers toward available supports.
Provider Action Steps:
- Provide information on state and federal tax credits and direct payment programs.
- Partner with community organizations to offer financial literacy workshops tailored to caregivers.
- Educate families on employer-based benefits and leave protections, including FMLA options and caregiver-friendly workplace policies.
Building an Ecosystem of Care
Supporting caregivers requires collaboration between providers, policymakers, community organizations, and employers. By working together, professionals can create a comprehensive system of resources—from education and training to respite and financial assistance—that helps caregivers thrive, not just cope.
Key Provider Takeaways:
- Equip caregivers with tools, training, and information.
- Connect them to supports like respite, peer groups, and tech solutions.
- Advocate for policies that expand access to paid leave, tax credits, and workplace accommodations.
When providers take an active role in empowering caregivers, we strengthen not just individual families but the entire fabric of community health.
Reference
AARP & National Alliance for Caregiving. (2025). Caregiving in the U.S., 2025 [Research report]. AARP Public Policy Institute & National Alliance for Caregiving.
Image Source: iStock photo ID 1416803934; Sewcream
