caregiving

Caregiving refers to the provision of ongoing assistance to another person who needs help due to illness, disability, aging, or cognitive impairment. Caregivers may be family members, friends, or paid professionals. Informal caregivers are usually unpaid and provide most daily support in home settings, while professional caregivers are hired to deliver targeted care in homes, facilities, or community programs.

Care tasks typically include helping with activities of daily living such as bathing, dressing, feeding, and mobility; managing medications; monitoring health conditions; coordinating medical appointments; arranging transportation; and providing emotional support and advocacy. Caregiving often involves coordinating with healthcare providers, social services, and family members to develop and implement a care plan.

Caregiving can improve the well-being and independence of the person receiving care but may also place significant emotional, physical, and financial strain on the caregiver. Common challenges include time pressure, role strain, social isolation, sleep disruption, and fatigue. Access to respite care, caregiver training, financial assistance, and supportive services can mitigate burdens.

Societal recognition and policy efforts aim to support caregivers through education, workplace accommodations, paid leave, and caregiver allowances. Ethical considerations include respect for autonomy, informed consent, privacy, and the balance between support and overreach in care decisions.