March is Women's History Month. During this month, society takes time to acknowledge the accomplishments, contributions, and impacts women have made to a broad range of fields, like politics, science, education, and sports (to name just a few). Women's History Month has its origins in "National Women's History Week" which began in 1911. But it was not until 1987, when petitioned by the National Women's History Project, that Congress passed a measure declaring March as Women's History Month. Although there are so many examples of notable and influential figures in Women's history, we would like to take a moment to recognize those women who strive and work hard every day as family caregivers.

 

A majority of aging individuals who need help rely on family and friends for care. The Family Caregiving Alliance reports that an estimated 66% of family caregivers are women whose average age is near 50 years old and who spend 50% more time providing care than male caregivers. [1] In fact, in many contexts, women have borne the responsibilities of caregiving, leading to an unequal distribution of the stresses and burdens. For example, due to family caregiving, and estimated 33% of women caregivers reduced their work hours, 29% passed up job advancements, 22% took a leave of absence, 20% went from full-time to part-time workers, and 16% quit their jobs. [2] [3] So, while we should acknowledge the crucial part women play when it comes to providing care for aging loved ones, we should also work toward getting rid of the inequality that impacts female family caregivers.

 

While there has been in increase in male caregivers over the years, women still make up the majority of caregivers across the world. [4] Acknowledging the impact that women have as caregivers is not the only step we should take. Private and public institutions should make certain resources more accessible to give women caregivers the support they need so they are not overburdened. For example, counseling services and respite programs can be important resources to help caregivers cope with stress and maintain their roles as caregivers. Additionally, places of work can offer periods of paid leave for a given period of time to help both female and male caregivers handle circumstances that often come unexpectedly. Nobody should have to quit their job and suffer financially because their loved one develops an illness. With the appropriate resources, we can empower caregivers and reduce the hardship that comes with the role to increase their quality of life.

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