Consumer Alert: Caregivers spend almost 16k in out-of-pocket costs
A lifelong Rochester resident, James earned his degree in Journalism from SUNY Brockport. He has spent the last eight years reporting on the Rochester Red Wings and other local teams for the Rochester Democrat and Chronicle, bringing passion and detailed insights to his coverage.
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Consumer Alert: Caregivers spend almost 16k in out-of-pocket costs Deanna Dewberry News10NBC ROCHESTER, N.Y. — Caregiving comes with a cost. That’s the finding of new data released by AARP. Its study reveals that caregivers in New York State spend almost $16,00 in out-of-pocket costs. That study was released as the Rochester community faces a severe shortage of nursing home beds. Eighty percent of care in the community is provided by family members, not the formal system, and the price they pay can be measured in more than money.AARP New York revealed new data at a Tuesday morning news conference at Highland Hospital showing that family caregivers spend an average of $15,845 every year out of their own pockets, Kathleen Benedetti-Fisher said. Those caregiving expenses often come as caregivers work fewer hours or leave their jobs entirely. The AARP study found that over their lifetimes, caregivers are projected to lose $105,100 in lost wages, $7,300 in retirement income and another $8,100 in future Social Security benefits. “So many caregivers work. Many take care of children. Some take care of their grandchildren too,” said Ann Marie Cook, President and CEO of Lifespan. She said that Lifespan has more than 30 services that help support family caregivers. The physical and emotional health of caregivers can also be affected. But there are many resources available from including respite care to legal help. At the press conference, Arlene Wilson of the Alzheimer’s Association of Rochester and the Finger Lakes pointed out that caregivers can call the organization’s 24/7 helpline at 1-800-272-3900. “And through that helpline we can provide master’s level clinical advisement, support, information, referrals to local resources,” Arlene Wilson said. She said the organization also has support groups throughout the area. These resources are critical for the almost 4 million family members providing care across New York. Here are some of those resources: New York AARP Caregiving New York AARP Caregiver Resource Guide AARP Financial and Legal Resources for Caregivers New York Caregiving Checklist AARP Family Caregiving Facebook Group Caregiver’s Couch: Stories from other caregivers