Family Caregiving
Taking care of a loved one – like an aging parent, or a youth with disability – can be hard. That’s why United Way and AARP are collaborating to connect more family caregivers to more resources across the U.S.
Every day, about 48 million U.S. adults are assisting their older relatives, spouses, friends, or neighbors with daily tasks like medication management, light housework, and transportation to medical appointments. It can be hard to find local resources, and even harder for the caregiver to take care of themselves. So far, the Caregiver Support Program we support with AARP has connected 1.3 million family caregivers to the services and support they need. More than 235,000 caregivers have gotten that help through 211, a 24/7 helpline (supported by United Way) that connects people with resources in their community.
If you or someone you know needs caregiving resources, call 211 or visit the 211 website.
How 211 Supports Caregivers
When Jacqueline was struggling to care for her husband Malcolm, facing a major surgery away from home, 211 was there for her.
By The Numbers
Through personalized, one-on-one conversations with trained 211 Community Resource Specialists, caregivers get tailored AARP resources that cover a wide range of topics, along with direct connections to local services. Find tailored caregiving resources for the states in the program.
1.3M
caregivers have received support and access to resources
350K
referrals from 211 for caregiving needs
14.6M
caregivers have access to the Caregiver Support Program through 211
AARP and United Way Worldwide expanded the program in spring 2025, so it’s now in 25 states and Puerto Rico. That means we’re now serving 36% of the total U.S. population, and our program is accessible to an estimated 14.6 million caregivers.
The program takes a holistic approach, addressing caregiving-related concerns and challenges many caregivers face, such as housing, utilities, food assistance, and mental health. While these issues may not prompt their call, they're often part of the demands of caregiving.
Caregiving Resources in Your State
Caregiving may be one of the most important and challenging roles you’ll ever take on. These guides help you get access to programs and services for everything from health, legal and financial assistance to respite care.