Recent research reveals a rise in male caregivers taking on responsibilities traditionally associated with women, according to a new study.

These men face difficulties, particularly when trying to balance their caregiving duties with work and other familial obligations.

According to a study by Carewell, an online platform supporting family caregivers, 25% of surveyed American men admitted to concealing their caregiving roles from their bosses.

Moreover, one-third of these men regularly engage in unpaid caregiving, dedicating an average of 21.5 hours each week to these tasks, as highlighted in exclusive findings shared with YSL News.

What’s Driving More Men to Become Caregivers?

Carewell initiated the study to understand the changing landscape of male caregivers—a role historically viewed as primarily feminine. CEO Bianca Padilla stated, “Our aim was to highlight the increasing number of men in caregiving roles, shed light on their distinct challenges, and celebrate their commitment and contributions.”

The study indicates that caregiving is becoming more inclusive, moving away from rigid gender norms. Padilla and her husband Jonathan founded the e-commerce business after grappling with identifying necessary products during their journey of caring for Padilla’s grandmother. The company acts as a support and advocacy platform for the 53 million family caregivers in the U.S.

Shifts in Caregiving and Social Dynamics

While caregiving has always existed, today’s caregivers face significant pressures. Padilla noted that economic challenges like rising healthcare and living expenses exacerbate these strains. “The prevalence of dual-income households and demanding job schedules also means less time for caregiving. Additionally, medical advances extending lifespans result in longer caregiving durations, allowing many older adults to age in place more comfortably,” she explained.

In Carewell’s 2024 survey titled “Overcoming the Sandwich Generation’s Caregiving Challenges,” 71% of middle-aged Americans reported caring for both their kids and parents, with 41% acting as the sole caregiver. A significant 70% balanced full-time work alongside their caregiving roles, dedicating an average of 37 hours weekly, with the typical monthly caregiving expense reaching $2,054.

The latest study found that 75% of male caregivers are also employed full-time, and 10% work part-time. A mere 7% focus solely on caregiving without additional employment.

Padilla noted, “We’ve observed that employed caregivers, regardless of gender, are finding it difficult to juggle work and caregiving responsibilities, creating a rising need for flexible work options and resources. This trend reflects a growing recognition that caregiving is a widespread concern that impacts everyone, irrespective of age or income.”

Challenges of Work-Life Balance for Male Caregivers

The recent survey highlighted other important findings regarding male caregivers:

• 1 in 20 male caregivers reported being demoted or losing their job due to caregiving obligations. Additionally, 22% had to switch jobs to better assist their loved ones.
• One in four Gen Z men regularly engage in unpaid caregiving work.
• The largest group, 27% of respondents, reported caring for a parent, while 13% were caring for a spouse, 9% for a grandparent, 5% for another relative, 3% for in-laws, and 2% for a friend.
• Approximately one-third of men took on caregiving responsibilities because there was no one else available to help.
• A significant 43% of male caregivers expressed a desire to take on the caregiving role, with 50% of those caring for a spouse sharing the same sentiment.

Who Are the Male Caregivers?

According to the study, men in healthcare occupations were the most likely to take on caregiving roles (43%), whereas those in manufacturing reported the least likelihood (29%).

Younger men are often caring for grandparents, averaging 34 years in age, while the oldest male caregivers typically support their in-laws, averaging 45 years old, and those caring for spouses are slightly younger at an average age of 44.

The Experience of Caregiving

Frank Libert, now 72 and a retired middle school science teacher, became the primary caregiver for his father, Francis, as his health declined before his passing in 2012. Living merely 15 minutes away, he was closer than his siblings, which led to him taking on the most responsibility.

“This proximity made it easier to check on him often and respond to his immediate needs, but it also meant I ended up managing most daily tasks,” Libert shared.

The family hired professional caregivers to assist Francis, who wished to remain in his own home during his decline.

After work, Frank would visit his father several times a week, saying, “Juggling my job, my home life, and care for my father was extremely challenging. It often felt like I was managing two households, leaving me both physically and emotionally drained.”

The Case for a Caregiver Tax Credit

AARP is advocating for support for family caregivers through a proposed federal tax credit for qualifying families, a spokesperson for the organization stated recently.

A bipartisan bill was presented last January in both houses of Congress, with AARP collaborating with lawmakers for eight years on iterations of this proposal. The 2024 initiative attracted 98 co-sponsors but did not progress in committee. Nonetheless, AARP continues its efforts.

The Credit for Caring Act, if approved, would offer financial relief of up to a $5,000 nonrefundable federal tax credit for eligible caregivers, covering 30% of qualifying expenses over $2,000.

AARP plans to kick off a million-dollar advertising campaign from January 16 to January 30, aimed at prioritizing the tax credit issue in Congress.

“Family caregivers are the backbone of America’s long-term care system, but they are overwhelmed and financially strained,” stated Nancy LeaMond, AARP’s executive vice president and chief advocacy & engagement officer. “Supporting family caregivers is crucial, not only to enhancing America’s health but also as an economic necessity. We urge Congress to offer vital financial support to these selfless individuals and alleviate their burdens.”

Betty Lin-Fisher is a consumer reporter for YSL. Follow her on X, Facebook, or Instagram @blinfisher.