Recognizing Student Caregivers: Applying the Age Inclusivity Domains in Higher Education Model

Currently, five million students attending post-secondary education are also caregivers, with impacts on academic success, mental health, and retention. Rooted in the age-inclusivity in higher education model, this paper illustrates how mixed-methods data from a campus-wide study can be used to assess the prevalence and impact of unpaid caregiving on students. Respondents (n = 241) who identified as a caregiver described their caregiving circumstances and completed measures related to the impact of caregiving on personal care, academic aspects, and quality of life. Lack of support (47.0%) and financial matters surrounding caregiving (26.2%) placed student caregivers at risk for low quality of life. Qualitative data from focus groups (n = 16) showed that student caregivers encompassed a range of challenges, emotions, and coping strategies. Guided by the age-inclusive domains framework, universities can empower student caregivers to balance family responsibilities with career and personal growth regardless of age.