Family members, most frequently daughters and sons rather than spouses, are the primary caregivers for senior relatives who have opted to age in place. Gradually, caregiving needs can exceed the time or capabilities of family, and professional caregivers may be hired to provide the necessary care. As caregiving tasks continue to escalate, the professional help assumes more responsibilities and becomes the primary caregiver while the family plays a secondary rolein day-to-day involvement. The effects of aging, mobility impairment, heart disease, or other physically deteriorating conditions can make long-term caregiving a necessity. Many agency caregivers report that they work about 4.5 hours per day in the home and have done so for 5-9 years.
