John, my name is Rosanita. And like many of you, I have both given and received care.

I was born with a congenital heart disease that would eventually require multiple surgeries throughout my life. Growing up, I received care from my parents – but when they got older, the tables turned. I am now caring for my parents, in addition to making sure I continue to get the care I need.

I’m not alone in my situation. 

Thanks to a brand new study, we know that over 105 million people provide unpaid care to a disabled person or older adult. That’s more than double the number of caregivers from ten years ago. Now, caregivers make up 40% of adults in the U.S.

Care is everywhere – and it’s time we shared that loudly and proudly with the world. Take a moment and share a photo of how care shows up in your life – whether it’s your aging parents, your children, a disabled loved one, or even yourself. 

Share your photo

Ultimately, I had to leave my job in quality assurance to care for both of my parents full-time. It’s not easy – every day, I worry about my parents’ future and my own future, since my parents are not eligible for Medicaid home and community-based services, and we just don’t have the resources to pay for care out of pocket. 

It shouldn’t be this way.

Care connects us across every socioeconomic background, race, and stage of life. Whether through child care, caring for a disabled person, or caring for an aging family member, caregiving is happening in homes across the country. But we need more support and recognition.

If you’re a caregiver or care recipient reading this right now, know that you’re not alone. We have power in numbers, and the 105 million caregivers out there will keep advocating until we get the support we need, so we can give and receive care with joy and dignity. 

Sharing our stories can really make a difference and help us make sure we have a care system that works for everyone. Share your photo now to show the world how we all have care in common.

With care,

Rosanita, on behalf of Caring Across Generations