2013–14 Unpaid Eldercare in the United States – Data from the American Time Use Survey — 2015-09-23

Sixteen percent (40.4 million) of the civilian noninstitutional population age 15 and over provide unpaid eldercare, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reported today. Of the 40.4 million eldercare providers, a majority are employed (61 percent) and nearly one-half are employed full time (47 percent). These estimates are averages for the 2-year period of 2013-14; combining the 2 years of data facilitates a more in-depth analysis of eldercare. Eldercare providers are defined as individuals who provide unpaid care to someone age 65 or older who needs help because of a condition related to aging. This care can be provided to household or nonhousehold members, as well as persons living in retirement homes or assisted care facilities. Eldercare can involve a range of care activities, such as assisting with grooming, preparing meals, and providing transportation.