Which long-term care support policies are best for caregivers?

Abstract

The brief's key findings are: (1) Family caregivers are vital to meeting the long-term care needs of older adults, but it means financial sacrifices in lost earnings or out-of-pocket costs. (2) Various policies could reduce the burden, but it remains unclear which ones help the most, so this study asked caregivers directly. (3) Caregiver focus groups strongly prefer direct payments for caregiving and cost reimbursement over respite care, tax or Social Security credits, and paid leave. (4) Direct payments are especially popular among non-White caregivers, which accords with national data showing they provide more care and work less. (5) Finally, a separate analysis estimating the monetary value of the policy options aligns with the views of focus group participants.