Disabled Services Division Oregon Department of Human Services More than 300,000 Oregonians serve as caregivers to family members or friends, according to a national survey conducted in 1999.
Family caregivers assume many different roles in different settings.
They may help a loved one with cooking, cleaning or bathing needs. A caregiver might help with shopping or transportation, or simply spend time with the person. Without these family supports, many elderly could no longer live at home and would have to move to an institutionalized setting. Most family caregivers are motivated by a combination of love for the family member and the economic reality of hiring a caregiver. Many families find that caregiving adds a rewarding dimension to their relationship with the family member.