Nearly one in four adults in Rhode Island — approximately 206,000 people — are family caregivers providing largely unpaid care to older parents, spouses and other loved ones, according to new data released Tuesday by AARP Rhode Island.
The findings, detailed in “Caregiving in the U.S. 2025: Caring Across States,” come ahead of National Family Caregivers Month in November and highlight what AARP calls an urgent need for increased support for family caregivers across the Ocean State.
Family caregivers in Rhode Island provide $2.1 billion in unpaid care each year, helping family members live independently at home and in their communities, according to the report. Their responsibilities range from bathing and meal preparation to managing medications, arranging transportation and handling medical tasks — often with little or no training.
“When a loved one needs help, family members, friends and neighbors step up, that’s what we do,” said Catherine Taylor, AARP Rhode Island state director. “But too often, caregivers carry this responsibility alone, often putting their finances, health and jobs at risk.”
The data shows caregiving takes a significant toll. Among Rhode Island caregivers, 99% assist with instrumental activities of daily living such as meal prep, administering medicines and managing finances, while 65% help with activities of daily living including bathing, dressing and feeding. Additionally, 55% help with medical and nursing tasks and 40% engage in high-intensity caregiving.
The financial burden on caregivers is substantial. About 80% pay out of their own pockets to help meet their loved ones’ needs, averaging $7,200 each year — roughly 25% of their income. In Rhode Island, an estimated 44% of family caregivers report financial setbacks such as taking on debt, draining savings or struggling to afford basics like food and medicine.
An estimated 70% of the state’s caregivers have juggled full- or part-time jobs while providing care. Many must reduce work hours or leave the workforce entirely due to caregiving responsibilities, jeopardizing their own long-term financial security.
Among New England caregivers, 43% report moderate to high levels of emotional stress, and 31% receive no help with caregiving, either paid or unpaid.
With the release of the new data and ahead of the 2026 legislative session, AARP Rhode Island is urging policymakers to take action to help family caregivers save money and time and get the support they need.
The organization pointed to Rhode Island’s Paid Family Leave program, Temporary Caregiving Insurance, which has been improved in recent years. The TCI program now offers eight weeks of paid leave for family caregivers and provides 75% of their wages while providing care.
At the federal level, AARP is working to save caregivers money through the Credit for Caring Act, a proposed federal tax credit of up to $5,000 for working caregivers, and the Lowering Costs for Caregivers Act, which would expand flexible spending and health savings account uses.
AARP Rhode Island encourages residents to show support for caregivers and join its “I Am A Caregiver” movement. Free caregiver tools and local resource guides are available through AARP’s online Caregiving Hub and the United Way’s 211 helpline.
To access free caregiver tools and local resource guides, visit:
AARP’s official caregiving Facebook group serves as a place for family caregivers nationwide to connect, share practical tips, offer support, and discuss their shared experiences.
AARP Rhode Island “Guide for Caring for Older Adults in Rhode Island helps family caregivers access key programs, services, and agencies right in their community.
AARP’s online Caregiving Hub has tools and information available in English and Spanish.
AARP and United Way Worldwide’ s 211 program connects Rhode Island family caregivers to essential local services for themselves and their loved ones via the 211 helpline.
