MALE SPOUSAL CAREGIVERS ARE ON THE RISE BUT THEY PROVIDE MOSTLY SECONDARY, INSTRUMENTAL, AND LOW-INTENSITY CARE
2024

Male Spousal Caregivers: Trends and Types of Care Provided

publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Cha Hyungmin, Ailshire Jennifer

Primary Institution: University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, United States

Hypothesis

What are the trends in the prevalence and types of caregiving tasks provided by male spousal caregivers over time?

Conclusion

The prevalence of male caregivers has increased from 2002 to 2018, but they mainly provide secondary, instrumental, and low-intensity care.

Supporting Evidence

  • The prevalence of male caregivers has been increasing from 2002 to 2018.
  • Male caregivers primarily focus on secondary, instrumental, and low-intensity caregiving.
  • Descriptive statistics show changes in the demographics of male caregivers over time.

Takeaway

More men are helping take care of their spouses than before, but they usually do less intense tasks.

Methodology

Data from the Health and Retirement Study (2002-2018) was used to analyze trends in spousal caregiving.

Limitations

The study may not capture all aspects of male caregiving or the experiences of caregivers from diverse backgrounds.

Participant Demographics

The study highlights trends among Hispanic individuals, younger cohorts, highly educated, retired, and wealthy men with older spouses.

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1093/geroni/igae098.3152

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