Young Adult Caregivers: a First Look at an Unstudied Population

Objectives: We examined the prevalence, characteristics, and responsibilities of young adults aged 18 to 25 years who are caregivers for ill, elderly, or disabled family members or friends.

Methods: We analyzed 2 previously published national studies (from 1998 and 2004) of adult caregivers.

Results: Young adult caregivers make up between 12% and 18% of the total number of adult caregivers. Over half are male, and the average age is 21. Most young adults are caring for a female relative, most often a grandmother. Young adult caregivers identified a variety of unmet needs, including obtaining medical help, information, and help making end-of-life decisions.

Conclusions: Analysis of these 2 surveys broadens our understanding of the spectrum of family caregivers by focusing on caregivers between the ages of 18 and 25 years. The high proportion of young men raises questions about the appropriateness of current support services, which are typically used by older women. Concerted efforts are essential to ensure that young adults who become caregivers are not deterred from pursuing educational and career goals.