Author: Nick

The notion of retirement in the United States is shifting. Americans are working later in life and retirement no longer means a complete departure from the workforce. For many, it’s an economic necessity. For others, work continues to enrich and provide value in their lives.

More and more working Americans are opting to put off retirement for a variety of factors, including economic ones. An AP-NORC Center poll explores the attitudes of people over 50.

Unpaid family members and friends provide much of the long-term care that older Americans need to remain in their homes and communities as they age. However, these caregivers often shoulder a large personal burden themselves, according to an AP-NORC Center survey of adults with caregiving experience. This AP-NORC Center video interactive explores the perspectives of these informal caregivers.

According to a new survey by the Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research, 35 percent of caregivers have skipped routine care, 33 percent skipped a recommended treatment, and 31 percent didn’t go to the doctor at all when sick or injured as a result of their caregiving responsibilities. Others cite impacts to their personal finances. Still, 60 percent say they feel supported in their role as a caregiver.

This survey from The AP-NORC Center dives into the experiences of providers and recipients of long-term care, examining what caregivers do, how they are trained, and how they balance caregiving with other aspects of their lives.