Tens of millions of Americans care for loved ones up to 6 hours a day while working a job—and don’t get any extra money for it

Fortune

by Cathy Bussewitz, The Associated Press

February 19, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

Tens of millions of Americans are balancing full-time jobs with caregiving responsibilities for elderly family members, often spending up to six hours a day on these tasks. This demanding role, which typically lasts around six years, creates significant challenges for employees trying to maintain their careers while managing health concerns, emotional stress, and financial strain. Many workers rely on paid or unpaid leave under federal laws like the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA), but this system has limitations. For instance, FMLA provides up to 12 weeks of unpaid leave per year, yet it doesn’t apply to all workplaces, particularly smaller employers, and may not be sustainable for low-income workers who can’t afford to miss paychecks. Experts highlight that caregiving is a growing issue in the U.S., with more than 63 million people currently providing care. This burden often forces individuals to quit their jobs, leading to lost income, retirement savings, and productivity for both employees and employers. Recognizing this trend, some companies are stepping up by offering paid leave, flexible scheduling, or additional resources to support caregivers. For example, AARP provides two weeks of paid caregiving leave, while other employers offer varying amounts of paid time off. States like California and New York have also implemented mandatory paid family leave programs, further addressing the gap in federal protections. The need for better caregiver supports is not just a personal issue—it’s a critical business concern. Employers stand to lose talented employees who are forced to leave their jobs due to caregiving responsibilities. By offering more robust benefits like paid leave or flexible work arrangements, companies can retain skilled workers, reduce turnover costs, and foster a more loyal and productive workforce. As the U.S. population ages and caregiving demands increase, prioritizing these supports will become essential for both employees and businesses alike.

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Originally published on Fortune on 2/19/2026