Caregiver Role

Characteristics of Informal Caregivers

Social norms based on a hierarchy of preferences influence who serves as an informal care provider. When spouses are available in this hierarchy of informal caregiving, they are expected to assume responsibilities first, followed by an adult daughter or daughter-in-law, and then other female caregivers (i.e., niece, sister, aunt, or granddaughter). The next relatives in line to assume caregiving responsibilities are sons and other male family members. Although this hierarchy of informal caregivers is well established, recent trends in family interaction patterns indicate that adult children are providing care in greater numbers than ever. Historically, as indicated by the hierarchy of preferences and dictated by traditional definitions of gender roles, females have been more likely than males to assume the informal caregiver role. The difference in life expectancy between males and females, with females living longer than men, is one explanation for this pattern. Another is that many in society have assumed females are better at caregiving and are naturally suited to provide assistance. Recent national caregiving trends indicate, however, that these gender-based expectations have lessened, and emerging evidence points to increasing numbers of men participating in the caregiving role.

The typical caregiver is a middle-aged (i.e., late 40s to late 50s) female who is married and working either full- or part-time. Youth and young adults also assume care-related roles when family circumstances warrant. On average, family helpers complete 20 hours of aid a week and perform a variety of care-related tasks for recipients. Tasks include assisting with activities of daily living (ADLs) and instrumental activities of daily living (IADLs). ADLs include bathing, dressing, eating, and grooming. IADLs include forms of aid such as cooking, cleaning, shopping, transportation, and assisting with finances. Along with completing or assisting with everyday tasks for care recipients, caregivers make decisions about recipients' health and safety. For example, care providers evaluate a recipient's [Page 196]ability to drive, establish and maintain healthy living environments, and secure proper professional medical aid and financial or legal advice. The amount of time and the specific care-related tasks caregivers provide may increase their chances for experiencing both risks and rewards.

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