Caring Across Generations: The Urgent Need to Support Young Carers in Canada's Aging Population.

Abstract

Young carers-youth aged 15 to 24 years who provide unpaid care to older adults-represent an essential yet often invisible component of Canada's caregiving landscape. Over one million young Canadians provide unpaid care to family members, with approximately 40% caring for older adults such as grandparents. As Canada's population ages and chronic illness prevalence rises, the number of young people assuming caregiving responsibilities continues to grow. Despite their significant contributions, young carers face unique challenges including impacts on mental health, educational attainment, and social development, often without formal recognition or support. This Perspectives article reviews the current evidence on young carers of older adults in Canada, examines their lived experiences, and identifies systemic gaps in health, education, and social systems. Unlike the United Kingdom, which has enacted legislation formally recognizing and supporting young carers, Canada lacks comprehensive policies and support structures for this population. Innovative programs are emerging, including foundational training for health professionals, online peer support communities, and cross-sector collaborations between health-care providers, educators, and community organizations. The article recommends actionable steps including legislative recognition of young carers, improved data collection and monitoring, expanded professional training, investment in peer support programs, and implementation of family-centered care models. Primary care teams are uniquely positioned to identify young carers, recognize their contributions, and connect families with available supports. Without adequate recognition and intervention, young carers remain at risk of long-term social, academic, and mental health difficulties affecting both themselves and those for whom they care.