Balancing Family and Caregiving: The Hidden Strain on Adult Children

The Growing Pressure on Family Caregivers

Across Clackamas County and the surrounding communities of Oregon City, Gladstone, Milwaukie, Happy Valley, Clackamas, SE Portland, and Molalla, family caregiving has quietly become a full-time second job for thousands of adults.

According to the AARP Family Caregiving Report (2024), more than one in five Oregonians provides unpaid care for an older adult — and the average caregiver spends over 26 hours per week supporting a parent or relative. While caring for loved ones is an act of devotion, the emotional and physical toll can be immense.

The Oregon Health Authority (2024) reports that caregiver stress is one of the leading causes of burnout and early institutional placement. Families often face the heartbreaking realization that they can’t “do it all,” even with the best intentions.

When Love Turns Into Exhaustion

Many adult children try to manage everything — careers, kids, and aging parents — only to find themselves stretched thin. Over time, this chronic stress can lead to fatigue, resentment, and declining health.
Studies from the National Alliance for Caregiving (2024) show that 60% of family caregivers report symptoms of depression or anxiety, and one-third experience health decline due to caregiving responsibilities.

That’s where Providential Home Care steps in — not to replace family involvement, but to restore balance.

How Professional Caregivers Relieve Family Stress

Professional in-home caregivers provide more than just practical help — they provide relief. By taking on daily tasks like personal care, meal preparation, medication reminders, and transportation, caregivers allow families to regain time and emotional energy.

At Providential, our approach is built on trust and consistency. We strive to assign the same caregiver for each visit whenever possible, ensuring stability and comfort for both clients and families. Our caregivers become part of the household rhythm — familiar faces who make life easier, safer, and more peaceful.

The Value of Local, Personalized Support

As a locally owned agency, Providential Home Care understands the unique needs of Oregon families. We’re not a franchise or a call center — we’re part of the same community we serve. That means when a family in Happy Valley needs weekend support or when a loved one in Clackamas experiences a sudden change in condition, we respond quickly and personally.

Our caregivers live nearby, know the local area, and take pride in helping neighbors maintain independence at home.

Financial and Emotional Sustainability

Hiring consistent in-home care isn’t just an emotional decision — it’s a practical one.

By supplementing family care with part-time professional support, families often find that in-home care is both sustainable and affordable — while dramatically improving quality of life for everyone involved.

Restoring Balance and Peace of Mind

Caregiving should strengthen families, not overwhelm them. With help from a compassionate, consistent caregiver, adult children can once again focus on what truly matters — sharing laughter, connection, and meaningful time with their loved ones.

At Providential Home Care, we help Oregon families rediscover that balance. Because care should never come at the cost of your own well-being.