Caregiving-Related Work Productivity Loss Among Employed Family and Other Unpaid Caregivers of Older Adults

Objectives: Although nearly half of all family and unpaid caregivers to older adults work, little is known about short-term work impacts of caregiving using measures encompassing both missed work time and reduced productivity while physically at work. We quantify the prevalence, costs, and correlates of caregiving-related work productivity loss. Methods: We used the 2015 National Study of Caregiving and National Health and Aging Trends Study to estimate caregivingrelated work absences (absenteeism) and reduced productivity while at work (presenteeism). We calculated costs of lost productivity using hours lost, compensation, and a wage multiplier, accounting for the additional cost of replacing employee time. We examined correlates of caregiving-related absenteeism and presenteeism separately, using multivariable logistic regression models, adjusting for caregiver sociodemographic characteristics, occupation and hours worked, role overload, older adult health, use of respite care, support groups, flexible workplace schedules, help from family or friends, and caregiver training. Results: Nearly 1 in 4 (23.3%) of the estimated 8.8 million employed family caregivers reported either absenteeism or presenteeism over a 1-month period owing to caregiving. Among those affected, caregiving reduced work productivity by onethird on average-or an estimated $5600 per employee when annualized across all employed caregivers-primarily because of reduced performance while present at work. Productivity loss was higher among caregivers of older adults with significant care needs and varied according to sociodemographic characteristics and caregiver supports. Conclusions: Findings emphasize the potential economic value of targeted policy intervention to support working caregivers.

Automated summary

This study aims to explore the short-term work impacts of caregiving to older adults. The research findings show that nearly one-fourth of employed family caregivers reported either absenteeism or reduced work productivity due to caregiving. The average reduction in work productivity was one-third, resulting in an estimated cost of $5600 per employee annually. The study highlights the importance of targeted policy intervention to support working caregivers.