Legal Definitions - caregiver

A caregiver is an individual who assumes the primary responsibility for the daily well-being, safety, and care of another person who cannot fully care for themselves. This role often involves providing direct support for daily needs, managing health, and ensuring overall welfare. While sometimes a family member, a caregiver is typically not the parent when referring to a child, and they exercise a significant level of custodial responsibility for the individual in their care, whether that person is a child, an elderly adult, or an adult with disabilities.

• Example 1 (Child): After her parents were deployed for an extended military tour, seven-year-old Maya went to live with her aunt, Clara. Clara ensures Maya attends school, receives proper nutrition, goes to doctor's appointments, and has a stable and loving home environment.

  Clara is acting as a caregiver because she is not Maya's parent but has taken on the full custodial responsibility for Maya's daily needs, safety, and upbringing during her parents' absence.

• Example 2 (Elderly Adult): Mr. Henderson, an 85-year-old widower with advanced Alzheimer's disease, requires constant supervision and assistance. His adult daughter, Susan, moved into his home to manage his medication, prepare his meals, assist with personal hygiene, and ensure his safety throughout the day and night.

  Susan is a caregiver because she is responsible for the daily care and well-being of her elderly father, Mr. Henderson, who is unable to care for himself due to his medical condition.

• Example 3 (Adult with Disabilities): Following a severe stroke, Maria, a 45-year-old, lost much of her mobility and speech. Her brother, Carlos, rearranged his work schedule to provide full-time support, including helping her with physical therapy exercises, managing her appointments with specialists, and assisting her with daily tasks like dressing and eating.

  Carlos is acting as a caregiver by assuming the primary responsibility for the daily needs, health, and safety of his adult sister, Maria, who has significant disabilities.