National Alliance For Caregiving’s Caregiver Nation Summit 2025
Did you know that November is National Family Caregivers Month? In its honor, we were privileged to participate in the Caregiver Nation Summit 2025 hosted by the National Alliance for Caregiving (NAC). Complete with panel discussions and speeches from C-suite executives, celebrity caregivers, non-celebrity caregivers, and government officials, the Summit informed, inspired, and reframed caregiving from a private burden to a public good. According to the most recent NAC/AARP report, there are currently 63 million family caregivers in the U.S. – nearly 1 in 4 adults. (A 50% increase over the last ten years).
Personal caregiver stories shared by those on the frontlines helped to reinforce the data through lived experiences. They reminded us of the real people behind the numbers, who juggle work deadlines, doctor appointments, daily care activities, and life. One panelist noted, when caregivers struggle, our health-care system and workforce struggle as well. The pivot from “we know the problems around caregiving” to “how do we fix the problems around caregiving” created renewed energy and momentum from Summit participants to drive change. As Jason Resendez, NAC, CEO, pointed out in his opening remarks:
“America has become a caregiver nation…If we are going to make caregiving more sustainable and equitable, we need strong and consistent leadership from Congress and the Administration.”
This charge helped to fuel over 100 advocates who, on day two of the Summit, met with members of Congress (or their congressional aides) to advocate for reauthorization of the Older Americans Act (OAA). This is a critical piece of legislation that provides needed support to family caregivers, including in-home assistance services, nutrition assistance, and respite care.
The Summit had clear messages for all in attendance:
For caregivers: You are not alone! Unlike 20 years ago, technology is a gateway to numerous resources and support groups to help you through your journey.
For employers: Recognize that caregiving responsibilities can no longer be pushed to the back burner. They impact your business’s bottom line in terms of productivity, retention, and employee wellness.
For caregiver advocates: Caregiving should not be an isolated health experience. Advocate for caregiver inclusion in workplace policy, health-care planning, and discharge planning.
For policymakers: Take advantage of the shifting public mood and strong caregiving data to push for recognition and valuation of this unpaid, informal workforce, paid leave, respite funding, and caregiver training standards.
In his closing remarks, Jason Resendez gave us a call to action: “We must move from common ground to common action.” A bold charge, but one that deeply resonates for anyone who cares, or is cared for. What can we each do to help move our caregiver nation forward? Often, a small step in a different direction can help positively change the lives of many.
Until the next blog! Thank you for reading, for being here, and for caring!