Health-Related Consequences of Financial Strain Among Family Caregivers in the U.S

Family caregivers are essential to the healthcare system, yet many experience significant financial strain. Although financial strain is associated with worse caregiver mental health and well-being, the mechanisms underlying this association remain unclear. This study examines how financial strain relates to caregiver health outcomes within the caregiving stress process and assesses whether psychological resources-sense of purpose and perceived choice in caregiving-mediate these relationships. Using data from N = 1,223 family caregivers from the Caregiving in the U.S. 2020 dataset, hierarchical regression models examined the associations among care-related stressors, financial strain, and the outcomes of physical strain, emotional stress, and caregiving-related health impacts. Subjective financial strain significantly predicted greater physical strain, emotional stress, and negative health impacts. Perceived choice in caregiving was a partial mediator across all three outcomes. Findings underscore the importance of reducing subjective financial strain and strengthening coping resources to mitigate care-related stress.