Women’s caregiving duties spur workforce exodus

Men now account for 57% of full-time caregivers, a significant shift in gender dynamics that suggests many women are exiting the workforce rather than relinquishing or cutting back on their caregiving roles. A new report from The Guardian Life Insurance Co. of America reveals a sharp rise in full-time workers juggling caregiving duties, underscoring mounting pressures on the U.S. workforce. Nearly half of full-time employees (43%) now serve as caregivers, up from 38% in 2019. The findings emphasize the need for more workplace support such as flexible schedules and equitable paid leave, adding that caregivers are more likely to face anxiety, depression and substance-abuse challenges. “It’s essential that we offer support that addresses these interconnected needs,” Guardian Chief Human Resources Officer Stacey Hoin says.