$81 Billion in Unpaid Care: Florida's Caregiver Crisis

Family caregivers in Florida provide an astounding $81 billion in unpaid care each year. A new report from AARP reveals that 4.3 million Floridians contribute around 4.1 billion hours of care annually, valuing their work at roughly $19.66 per hour. This care is crucial for helping older adults stay at home instead of moving into expensive facilities. Jeff Johnson, AARP Florida State Director, emphasizes that caregivers are a significant economic force in the health care system. However, this dedication often comes at a high cost to their own health and financial security. The report highlights that caregivers now average 27 hours of care each week, with over half providing high-intensity support. AARP also uses this report to push for legislative changes in Florida, including support for SB 578 and HB 1121, which aim to improve services for caregivers and the elderly. This matters because as our population ages, recognizing and supporting family caregivers will become increasingly vital for both individuals and the health care system as a whole.