If you’ve found yourself stepping into the role of caregiver at a young age, you’re not alone, though it can certainly feel that way sometimes. According to a 2020 AARP report, 46% of caregivers in the U.S. are aged 18-49, with many supporting family members who are 50 or older.

Balancing caregiving with school, work, family, and personal aspirations is a lot to manage, and the weight of these responsibilities can feel especially heavy when you’re still figuring out your own path.

Understanding the Unique Challenges of Young Caregivers

Being a young caregiver often means wearing many hats at once. You might be in school, trying to build a career, or starting a family of your own while helping care for a loved one. The constant need to juggle responsibilities—sometimes without the recognition or resources available to older caregivers—can take an emotional and physical toll. It’s completely natural to feel overwhelmed, and it’s okay to acknowledge that you’re doing a lot.

Related: Caregivers, care for yourself first.

Financial Pressures
Young caregivers often face tough financial challenges, especially if they’re still in school or early in their careers. According to AARP, caregivers aged 18 to 49 experience the highest financial strain—about 22%, compared to 15% for older caregivers. Balancing caregiving with work or school can lead to missed income opportunities and extra expenses, quickly adding up and creating additional stress.

Disrupted Life Plans
Caregiving can shift priorities, often putting your life plans on hold. Whether it’s delaying college, slowing your career growth, or managing your relationships, caregiving at a young age often feels like taking on a full-time job that others might not fully see or understand. But know that you’re not alone, and many other young people are navigating these same disruptions and finding new ways forward.

Tips for Supporting Yourself While Caring for Others

To help manage the weight of caregiving, here are some strategies to support both you and your loved one:

Create a Routine
A set routine can be a lifesaver. Consistency helps not only the person you’re caring for, especially if they’re dealing with dementia, but it also helps you stay organized. Routines can create a sense of stability, making it a bit easier to manage both caregiving and personal tasks.

Seek Support and Connection
You might feel like you need to shoulder everything alone, but seeking support is one of the best things you can do for yourself and your loved one. Talk with family about sharing responsibilities, reach out to friends for emotional support, or consider joining a caregiver support group. Knowing others are there for you can make a world of difference.

Remember Self-Care
At Sundara, we believe wholeheartedly that caring for yourself is crucial to sustaining care for others. It’s okay to take time to rest, unwind, and pursue things you enjoy. Whether it’s a few quiet moments in the morning, meeting up with friends, or dedicating time to a hobby, taking care of your needs isn’t selfish—it’s essential.

Stepping into this role is challenging, especially at a young age, but remember: you’re doing an incredible thing, and you deserve care, rest, and support just as much as the person you’re caring for.

Compassionate dementia care in Round Rock, Texas

If you need more support caring for your loved one, Sundara Senior Living offers a thoughtfully designed memory care community to give your loved one a home away from home. 

Our community is intentionally intimate, so staff and residents can interact naturally and consistently. We take a highly personalized approach to each person in our care so you can have peace of mind that they’re well looked after.

Get in touch today to see how we can support you and your family.