Elder care: caregivers more likely to say government should pay

A University of Michigan poll of adults over 50 found unpaid caregivers were more likely to say the government should be primarily responsible for paying for elder care than those who have never been caregivers.

A University of Michigan–based poll shows differences in views about who should pay for long-term elder care. Adults over 50 who provide unpaid care were more likely to say the government should be primarily responsible than adults who have never been caregivers. The topic is discussed because many people who reach 65 will need some form of long-term care and current federal programs do not fully cover those costs. Key findings: - The survey sampled 3,216 adults age 50 and older, who were surveyed online and by phone in February and March 2024; the findings were published in the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society. - Just under 18% of respondents reported providing regular care to someone 65 or older. - Among caregivers, 51% said the government should have primary responsibility for paying for elder care, compared with 43% of respondents who had never been caregivers. - Caregivers expressed higher levels of concern about cost and access: about 64% reported being very concerned about cost (versus 54% of non-caregivers) and half said they were very concerned about whether high-quality help is available (versus 36% of the general public). Summary: The poll indicates a clear divide tied to caregiving experience, with caregivers reporting greater concern about costs and the availability of quality care. Undetermined at this time.