Why Is Caregiving So Hard in America? The Answers Emerge in a New Film

For people new to family caregiving, the lack of resources and support often comes as a bitter surprise.

Many people caring for a sick or elderly relative are shocked to find out that Medicare does not cover the cost of a nursing home or subsidize care at home — the cleaning, driving, and helping with meals and dressing that so many families take on. Private health insurance doesn’t pay either. The United States spends far less public money on long-term care than other wealthy nations.

Caregivers are on their own — and according to data from AARP, spend an average of $7,242 out of pocket each year. According to a recent Department of Labor report, they also miss out on an average of $43,500 in income due to the demands of adult care.