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America’s Unsung Heroes: Rand Report Reveals A New Look at Military Caregivers

Wendy Ann Lang

Suppose you are a military caregiver or know someone who is. In that case, you know that the role of a military and veteran caregiver often goes unnoticed and underappreciated. A RAND report, commissioned by the Elizabeth Dole Foundation and titled America’s Military and Veteran Caregivers: Hidden Heroes Emerging from the Shadows, provides valuable insights into this vital yet often misunderstood group of individuals who continue to support our service members and veterans long after they have left the uniform behind.

Who Are Military Caregivers?

The number of military caregivers (for the purpose of this article, “military” caregivers will include veterans and service members) has risen sharply since RAND’s 2014 report, with military caregivers now accounting for 5.5 percent—about 14.3 million—of the 40.5 percent of adults in the U.S. who provide care.

Military caregivers encompass a wide array of individuals who take on caregiving responsibilities for current and former service members. They may be spouses, siblings, parents, adult children, or even close friends and neighbors who assist with daily tasks, medical and mental healthcare, and illness. Here are some data points on caregivers the report revealed:

• Age and Relationships: About 27 percent of caregivers support service members or veterans under the age of 60, while the other 74 percent care for individuals over 60. For those under 60, 31 percent of caregivers are relatives, while 27 percent are friends or neighbors. Among caregivers for those over 60, 60 percent are either adult children or spouses, and 20 percent are friends or neighbors.

Who Are the Military Care Recipients

Military care recipients are individuals dealing with a wide range of physical and mental health challenges. While the specific needs of care recipients can differ significantly depending on their age and health status, the report emphasized several commonalities in the types of care they require.

• Care Recipients Under 60: Among those under 60 receiving care, 84 percent live with a chronic condition, and 62 percent have been diagnosed with a mental health or substance abuse disorder. Additionally, 61 percent require daily assistance with routine activities, such as bathing, eating, and mobility.
• Care Recipients Over 60: Older recipients often face chronic conditions or impairments in hearing or vision. Mental health issues and substance abuse disorders are also common, with 40 percent of recipients dealing with one or both. More than half (51 percent) need help with daily living tasks.

What Are the Potential Impacts of Being a Military Caregiver?

The report highlights the challenges caregivers face, which can profoundly affect their lives and those around them. Understanding these challenges is crucial for finding solutions to mitigate the long-term impact on caregivers and their families. Addressing these issues can enhance caregivers’ well-being and ensure better care and outcomes for their loved ones. Key challenges identified in the report include:

• Financial Strain: One of the most notable challenges highlighted in the report is the financial strain on caregivers. On average, military caregivers accrue an economic burden of more than $8,000 in caregiving expenses, with over 35 percent living below the poverty line.
• Mental Health Risks: In addition to financial difficulties, military caregivers are at an increased risk of mental health issues. Those caring for individuals under 60 are particularly vulnerable, with 43 percent reporting symptoms of depression and 20 percent of caregivers reporting thoughts of ending their lives within the past year,
• Impact on Children:  Nearly 38 percent of caregivers’ children contribute to the in-home care of the recipient. While this has shown an increase in empathy and prosocial behavior, these children are also more likely to miss school due to illness and have conduct challenges.
• Workplace Challenges: Many caregivers lack adequate workplace accommodations, such as telecommuting options, leading to reduced work hours and lower wages.

How Can Caregivers Get Support?

While military caregivers face a multitude of challenges, there are resources available to provide support. Unfortunately, many caregivers find it difficult to locate or access these resources due to time constraints or a lack of awareness. Below are some resources that caregivers—or those who know a caregiver—can explore to help alleviate the burdens of caregiving. These resources are not exhaustive but offer a starting point for finding assistance:

• Government Programs: The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) offers caregiver support to help guide those in need to compensation, education resources, legal and financial planning, and mental health services. Caregivers can access programming through every local VA facility or through their hotline.
• Non-Profit Organizations:  The Elizabeth Dole Foundation and the Family Caregiver Alliance “Hidden Heroes” program provides a wide range of services, including caregiver education, support groups, financial aid, and advocacy for caregiver rights.
• Workplace Assistance: Under the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA), caregivers may be eligible for up to 12 weeks of unpaid leave to care for a family member, support programs, or flexible work arrangements. By utilizing these resources, caregivers can find the help they need to better manage their responsibilities and improve their overall well-being.

Conclusion

We hope that by reading the summary of the Rand report, you have a clearer understanding of the challenges military caregivers face and a broader recognition of resources that can make their mission a little bit easier.

These resources are designed to provide much-needed assistance for caregivers, helping them balance their responsibilities and maintain their well-being while supporting their loved ones. By sharing these among your networks, you continue to support our nation’s heroes by assisting those providing support during and after military service.