Nearly Half of Americans Financially Support Aging Parents

Based on LendingTree’s survey, Aug. 19, 2025. Read the full report here.

Caring for aging parents has always been part of family life, but a new survey from LendingTree shows just how widespread — and heavy — this responsibility has become in today’s economy. Nearly half of Americans (46%) either already provide financial support for their parents (or in-laws) or expect to in the future.

That statistic alone is striking, but what stands out even more is the toll this support is taking — financially, emotionally, and professionally. Many families are dipping into savings, taking on debt, delaying life goals, and even stepping back from their careers in order to keep their parents afloat.

At Clara Home Care, we work with families navigating these pressures every day. This research validates what so many caregivers already know: supporting an older loved one isn’t just about time and care — it’s also about money, stress, and sacrifice. Let’s take a closer look at the findings and what they mean for families.

The Growing Reality: Financial Support for Parents

According to LendingTree, 23% of Americans currently provide financial support to aging parents, while another 23% expect to do so in the future. That means nearly half of U.S. households are either directly or soon-to-be financially involved in their parents’ wellbeing.

The trend is especially pronounced among younger generations:

67% of Gen Z (ages 18–28) expect to support parents.
63% of Millennials (ages 29–44) say the same.
By contrast, only 22% of Gen Xers (ages 45–60) report currently helping financially.

These differences may reflect generational timing — younger adults anticipate that as their parents age, the need will grow. But it also suggests a broader cultural shift: more Americans see supporting parents as an expected part of adulthood.

Interestingly, men were more likely than women to report that they’re currently providing support (27% vs. 19%), but women were more likely to expect to take on the role in the future (26% vs. 19%).

What Families Are Paying For

The financial help most often goes toward basic living expenses:

Groceries (69%)
Personal expenses (49%)
Housing (44%)
Utilities (43%)
Medical costs (42%)

These are not “extras” — they’re essentials. That reality makes it difficult for families to scale back support once they’ve started. After all, no one wants to tell their parents they can’t buy food or cover their medical bills.

The Financial Toll: Debt and Delayed Goals

One of the survey’s most sobering findings is how many supporters are going into debt. 58% of those who help parents financially have taken on debt to do so, and more than half borrowed at least $5,000. About 13% have taken on $25,000 or more.

That debt doesn’t just weigh on wallets — it delays life milestones. Three out of four (74%) caregivers say supporting parents keeps them from reaching financial goals like building an emergency fund, buying a home, or saving for retirement.

For younger adults, these sacrifices can have long-term ripple effects. The money they aren’t saving or investing now could mean smaller retirement accounts, fewer opportunities for their own children, and ongoing financial stress.

The Emotional Toll: Resentment and Stress

Financial support isn’t only a numbers game. It changes family dynamics. Nearly half (46%) of Americans who provide support admit they feel some resentment toward their parents because of the financial burden.

The resentment doesn’t always come from a lack of love — often, it’s about feeling overwhelmed, unsupported, or trapped. When a child’s own financial security is at risk, frustration can quickly surface, even in strong relationships.

Notably, men reported resentment at higher rates (52%) than women (39%), perhaps reflecting differences in cultural expectations around caregiving.

The Professional Toll: Stepping Back From Work

Money and emotions aren’t the only sacrifices. The survey found that 38% of caregivers (or those who expect to be) have reduced their work hours or left a job altogether due to caregiving responsibilities.

For some, that means reduced income. For others, it could mean lost career advancement or retirement savings. The burden is especially high among those with children at home, creating the “sandwich generation” squeeze: raising kids while also supporting parents.

Why Families Keep Saying Yes

Despite the strain, 84% of Americans who provide or expect to provide support say they believe it’s their responsibility. Gen Xers (ages 45–60) feel this duty most strongly, with 89% affirming the belief.

Even Gen Z, who are most hesitant, show that nearly three-quarters (74%) agree it’s their responsibility. The data makes one thing clear: family duty continues to outweigh financial strain.

How Families Can Prepare

LendingTree’s report emphasizes the importance of preparation — financially and emotionally — before the caregiving role becomes overwhelming. Their recommendations include:

Build an emergency fund. Even small contributions can soften the blow when new responsibilities arise.
Pay down high-interest debt. Reducing personal debt creates more room to support others without compounding financial strain.
Revisit your budget. As caregiving needs grow, priorities must shift. A flexible budget helps families adjust without losing control.
Keep saving for retirement. Supporting parents shouldn’t mean abandoning your own future security.
Have open conversations with parents. Understanding their financial situation and care wishes early can prevent crises later.

At Clara Home Care, we would add one more crucial step: plan for care beyond finances. Families often focus on money first, but the time, energy, and stress of caregiving can be just as overwhelming. Exploring caregiving support before you really need it — whether through part-time help or respite care — can relieve pressure before it becomes unsustainable.

The Clara Perspective: A Smarter Way to Balance Care

The LendingTree survey shows what many families already feel: providing for parents can jeopardize your own financial and emotional stability. At Clara Home Care, we believe families shouldn’t have to choose between supporting loved ones and protecting their own futures.

By helping families directly employ caregivers, we reduce the cost of care (no agency markups) while ensuring trusted, consistent support. This approach allows families to keep caregiving sustainable — financially and emotionally.

Takeaway for Families

If you’re feeling the weight of caregiving, you’re not alone. Nearly half of Americans are in the same position, and most are making sacrifices to keep their parents cared for.

The earlier you plan — financially, emotionally, and logistically — the more sustainable your caregiving journey can be. Support for aging parents may feel inevitable, but with the right preparation and resources, it doesn’t have to come at the cost of your own wellbeing.

At Clara Home Care, we’re here to help families navigate this balance with flexible, affordable caregiving solutions. Schedule a consultation today to explore how direct caregiver employment can ease the financial and emotional strain of supporting your loved ones.

Based on LendingTree’s survey, Aug. 19, 2025. Read the full report here.

Caring for aging parents has always been part of family life, but a new survey from LendingTree shows just how widespread — and heavy — this responsibility has become in today’s economy. Nearly half of Americans (46%) either already provide financial support for their parents (or in-laws) or expect to in the future.

That statistic alone is striking, but what stands out even more is the toll this support is taking — financially, emotionally, and professionally. Many families are dipping into savings, taking on debt, delaying life goals, and even stepping back from their careers in order to keep their parents afloat.

At Clara Home Care, we work with families navigating these pressures every day. This research validates what so many caregivers already know: supporting an older loved one isn’t just about time and care — it’s also about money, stress, and sacrifice. Let’s take a closer look at the findings and what they mean for families.

The Growing Reality: Financial Support for Parents

According to LendingTree, 23% of Americans currently provide financial support to aging parents, while another 23% expect to do so in the future. That means nearly half of U.S. households are either directly or soon-to-be financially involved in their parents’ wellbeing.

The trend is especially pronounced among younger generations:

67% of Gen Z (ages 18–28) expect to support parents.
63% of Millennials (ages 29–44) say the same.
By contrast, only 22% of Gen Xers (ages 45–60) report currently helping financially.

These differences may reflect generational timing — younger adults anticipate that as their parents age, the need will grow. But it also suggests a broader cultural shift: more Americans see supporting parents as an expected part of adulthood.

Interestingly, men were more likely than women to report that they’re currently providing support (27% vs. 19%), but women were more likely to expect to take on the role in the future (26% vs. 19%).

What Families Are Paying For

The financial help most often goes toward basic living expenses:

Groceries (69%)
Personal expenses (49%)
Housing (44%)
Utilities (43%)
Medical costs (42%)

These are not “extras” — they’re essentials. That reality makes it difficult for families to scale back support once they’ve started. After all, no one wants to tell their parents they can’t buy food or cover their medical bills.

The Financial Toll: Debt and Delayed Goals

One of the survey’s most sobering findings is how many supporters are going into debt. 58% of those who help parents financially have taken on debt to do so, and more than half borrowed at least $5,000. About 13% have taken on $25,000 or more.

That debt doesn’t just weigh on wallets — it delays life milestones. Three out of four (74%) caregivers say supporting parents keeps them from reaching financial goals like building an emergency fund, buying a home, or saving for retirement.

For younger adults, these sacrifices can have long-term ripple effects. The money they aren’t saving or investing now could mean smaller retirement accounts, fewer opportunities for their own children, and ongoing financial stress.

The Emotional Toll: Resentment and Stress

Financial support isn’t only a numbers game. It changes family dynamics. Nearly half (46%) of Americans who provide support admit they feel some resentment toward their parents because of the financial burden.

The resentment doesn’t always come from a lack of love — often, it’s about feeling overwhelmed, unsupported, or trapped. When a child’s own financial security is at risk, frustration can quickly surface, even in strong relationships.

Notably, men reported resentment at higher rates (52%) than women (39%), perhaps reflecting differences in cultural expectations around caregiving.

The Professional Toll: Stepping Back From Work

Money and emotions aren’t the only sacrifices. The survey found that 38% of caregivers (or those who expect to be) have reduced their work hours or left a job altogether due to caregiving responsibilities.

For some, that means reduced income. For others, it could mean lost career advancement or retirement savings. The burden is especially high among those with children at home, creating the “sandwich generation” squeeze: raising kids while also supporting parents.

Why Families Keep Saying Yes

Despite the strain, 84% of Americans who provide or expect to provide support say they believe it’s their responsibility. Gen Xers (ages 45–60) feel this duty most strongly, with 89% affirming the belief.

Even Gen Z, who are most hesitant, show that nearly three-quarters (74%) agree it’s their responsibility. The data makes one thing clear: family duty continues to outweigh financial strain.

How Families Can Prepare

LendingTree’s report emphasizes the importance of preparation — financially and emotionally — before the caregiving role becomes overwhelming. Their recommendations include:

Build an emergency fund. Even small contributions can soften the blow when new responsibilities arise.
Pay down high-interest debt. Reducing personal debt creates more room to support others without compounding financial strain.
Revisit your budget. As caregiving needs grow, priorities must shift. A flexible budget helps families adjust without losing control.
Keep saving for retirement. Supporting parents shouldn’t mean abandoning your own future security.
Have open conversations with parents. Understanding their financial situation and care wishes early can prevent crises later.

At Clara Home Care, we would add one more crucial step: plan for care beyond finances. Families often focus on money first, but the time, energy, and stress of caregiving can be just as overwhelming. Exploring caregiving support before you really need it — whether through part-time help or respite care — can relieve pressure before it becomes unsustainable.

The Clara Perspective: A Smarter Way to Balance Care

The LendingTree survey shows what many families already feel: providing for parents can jeopardize your own financial and emotional stability. At Clara Home Care, we believe families shouldn’t have to choose between supporting loved ones and protecting their own futures.

By helping families directly employ caregivers, we reduce the cost of care (no agency markups) while ensuring trusted, consistent support. This approach allows families to keep caregiving sustainable — financially and emotionally.

Takeaway for Families

If you’re feeling the weight of caregiving, you’re not alone. Nearly half of Americans are in the same position, and most are making sacrifices to keep their parents cared for.

The earlier you plan — financially, emotionally, and logistically — the more sustainable your caregiving journey can be. Support for aging parents may feel inevitable, but with the right preparation and resources, it doesn’t have to come at the cost of your own wellbeing.

At Clara Home Care, we’re here to help families navigate this balance with flexible, affordable caregiving solutions. Schedule a consultation today to explore how direct caregiver employment can ease the financial and emotional strain of supporting your loved ones.

Based on LendingTree’s survey, Aug. 19, 2025. Read the full report here.

Caring for aging parents has always been part of family life, but a new survey from LendingTree shows just how widespread — and heavy — this responsibility has become in today’s economy. Nearly half of Americans (46%) either already provide financial support for their parents (or in-laws) or expect to in the future.

That statistic alone is striking, but what stands out even more is the toll this support is taking — financially, emotionally, and professionally. Many families are dipping into savings, taking on debt, delaying life goals, and even stepping back from their careers in order to keep their parents afloat.

At Clara Home Care, we work with families navigating these pressures every day. This research validates what so many caregivers already know: supporting an older loved one isn’t just about time and care — it’s also about money, stress, and sacrifice. Let’s take a closer look at the findings and what they mean for families.

The Growing Reality: Financial Support for Parents

According to LendingTree, 23% of Americans currently provide financial support to aging parents, while another 23% expect to do so in the future. That means nearly half of U.S. households are either directly or soon-to-be financially involved in their parents’ wellbeing.

The trend is especially pronounced among younger generations:

67% of Gen Z (ages 18–28) expect to support parents.
63% of Millennials (ages 29–44) say the same.
By contrast, only 22% of Gen Xers (ages 45–60) report currently helping financially.

These differences may reflect generational timing — younger adults anticipate that as their parents age, the need will grow. But it also suggests a broader cultural shift: more Americans see supporting parents as an expected part of adulthood.

Interestingly, men were more likely than women to report that they’re currently providing support (27% vs. 19%), but women were more likely to expect to take on the role in the future (26% vs. 19%).

What Families Are Paying For

The financial help most often goes toward basic living expenses:

Groceries (69%)
Personal expenses (49%)
Housing (44%)
Utilities (43%)
Medical costs (42%)

These are not “extras” — they’re essentials. That reality makes it difficult for families to scale back support once they’ve started. After all, no one wants to tell their parents they can’t buy food or cover their medical bills.

The Financial Toll: Debt and Delayed Goals

One of the survey’s most sobering findings is how many supporters are going into debt. 58% of those who help parents financially have taken on debt to do so, and more than half borrowed at least $5,000. About 13% have taken on $25,000 or more.

That debt doesn’t just weigh on wallets — it delays life milestones. Three out of four (74%) caregivers say supporting parents keeps them from reaching financial goals like building an emergency fund, buying a home, or saving for retirement.

For younger adults, these sacrifices can have long-term ripple effects. The money they aren’t saving or investing now could mean smaller retirement accounts, fewer opportunities for their own children, and ongoing financial stress.

The Emotional Toll: Resentment and Stress

Financial support isn’t only a numbers game. It changes family dynamics. Nearly half (46%) of Americans who provide support admit they feel some resentment toward their parents because of the financial burden.

The resentment doesn’t always come from a lack of love — often, it’s about feeling overwhelmed, unsupported, or trapped. When a child’s own financial security is at risk, frustration can quickly surface, even in strong relationships.

Notably, men reported resentment at higher rates (52%) than women (39%), perhaps reflecting differences in cultural expectations around caregiving.

The Professional Toll: Stepping Back From Work

Money and emotions aren’t the only sacrifices. The survey found that 38% of caregivers (or those who expect to be) have reduced their work hours or left a job altogether due to caregiving responsibilities.

For some, that means reduced income. For others, it could mean lost career advancement or retirement savings. The burden is especially high among those with children at home, creating the “sandwich generation” squeeze: raising kids while also supporting parents.

Why Families Keep Saying Yes

Despite the strain, 84% of Americans who provide or expect to provide support say they believe it’s their responsibility. Gen Xers (ages 45–60) feel this duty most strongly, with 89% affirming the belief.

Even Gen Z, who are most hesitant, show that nearly three-quarters (74%) agree it’s their responsibility. The data makes one thing clear: family duty continues to outweigh financial strain.

How Families Can Prepare

LendingTree’s report emphasizes the importance of preparation — financially and emotionally — before the caregiving role becomes overwhelming. Their recommendations include:

Build an emergency fund. Even small contributions can soften the blow when new responsibilities arise.
Pay down high-interest debt. Reducing personal debt creates more room to support others without compounding financial strain.
Revisit your budget. As caregiving needs grow, priorities must shift. A flexible budget helps families adjust without losing control.
Keep saving for retirement. Supporting parents shouldn’t mean abandoning your own future security.
Have open conversations with parents. Understanding their financial situation and care wishes early can prevent crises later.

At Clara Home Care, we would add one more crucial step: plan for care beyond finances. Families often focus on money first, but the time, energy, and stress of caregiving can be just as overwhelming. Exploring caregiving support before you really need it — whether through part-time help or respite care — can relieve pressure before it becomes unsustainable.

The Clara Perspective: A Smarter Way to Balance Care

The LendingTree survey shows what many families already feel: providing for parents can jeopardize your own financial and emotional stability. At Clara Home Care, we believe families shouldn’t have to choose between supporting loved ones and protecting their own futures.

By helping families directly employ caregivers, we reduce the cost of care (no agency markups) while ensuring trusted, consistent support. This approach allows families to keep caregiving sustainable — financially and emotionally.

Takeaway for Families

If you’re feeling the weight of caregiving, you’re not alone. Nearly half of Americans are in the same position, and most are making sacrifices to keep their parents cared for.

The earlier you plan — financially, emotionally, and logistically — the more sustainable your caregiving journey can be. Support for aging parents may feel inevitable, but with the right preparation and resources, it doesn’t have to come at the cost of your own wellbeing.

At Clara Home Care, we’re here to help families navigate this balance with flexible, affordable caregiving solutions. Schedule a consultation today to explore how direct caregiver employment can ease the financial and emotional strain of supporting your loved ones.