Friends Increasingly Serve as Caregivers for Older Adults

Millions of older adults now rely on friends for help with errands and daily living tasks to maintain their independence.

Updated on Oct. 27, 2026 in Eldercare

Friends Increasingly Serve as Caregivers for Older Adults

Live Poll

Would you feel more comfortable relying on friends than family for your own long-term care needs?

As of October 2026, data shows that friends are increasingly stepping into primary caregiving roles for older adults in the United States. Researchers found that these non-family caregivers often focus on promoting independent living through help with daily errands.

Why it matters

With shifting family structures and rising rates of childlessness, these alternative caregiving arrangements are becoming essential for the growing population of Americans aged 65 and older. This shift highlights a change in how the aging population maintains independence outside of traditional family support systems.

Researchers at the University of Michigan analyzed the 2023 National Health and Aging Trends Study, which surveyed over 2,600 older adults receiving daily assistance. The analysis revealed that 2.4 million friends provide care, though the long-term impact on care quality remains under investigation.

The players

University of Michigan

An academic institution focused on public health research and the study of aging populations.

The details

While family members are more likely to assist with personal care tasks like bathing and dressing, friends prioritize support that facilitates independent living. These individuals specifically assist with transportation, shopping, meal preparation, and outdoor activities. This division of labor suggests that friends often act as a secondary support system that bridges the gap for older adults with limited family availability.

The National Health and Aging Trends Study collected data throughout 2023.
The University of Michigan caregiving study was published in October 2026.
The global population of older adults is projected to double by 2060.

Health Landscape

This research updates the figures and trends previously established by the National Health and Aging Trends Study. It situates non-family caregivers within a broader demographic shift where older adults are expected to comprise 23.4% of the U.S. population by 2060.

If you are an older adult or helping a loved one, recognizing that friends can play a distinct role in maintaining independence may help in structuring support plans. It is worth discussing with your physician or a social worker how to coordinate care tasks effectively between family members and friends.

The takeaway

Friends provide vital assistance with daily living, such as meal preparation and shopping, which complements traditional family care. If you are managing your own care, consider mapping out your support network to identify which tasks family members versus friends are best suited to handle.