How many Caregivers are estimated to be worldwide?

the WHO and other health organizations recognize the critical role of caregivers in supporting individuals with a variety of health needs, including older adults, people with disabilities, and those with chronic illnesses like dementia. Here are a few points that help to understand the scope of caregiving:

1. Informal Caregivers: The majority of caregiving worldwide is provided by informal caregivers — family members, friends, or community members who provide care without pay. This form of caregiving is widespread and spans cultures and countries.
2. Growing Need: With the global population aging, the number of individuals requiring care is increasing. This trend suggests a corresponding rise in the number of caregivers, both formal and informal.
3. Differences in Reporting: The way caregiving is reported and recognized varies greatly among countries and cultures. In some places, family caregiving is a deeply ingrained social and cultural norm and may not be formally acknowledged as caregiving in the same way it is in countries with more structured healthcare systems.
4. Caregiver Support: The WHO and other health organizations emphasize the need for support for caregivers, recognizing their critical role in health and social care systems. This includes the need for training, resources, and policies to support caregiver health and well-being.
5. Regional Variations: Estimates for caregivers can also vary significantly by region. For instance, in some countries, a large percentage of elderly care is provided by family members, whereas in others, professional caregiving services are more common.

Given these complexities, it’s challenging to provide a precise global number of caregivers. However, it’s clear that caregivers form a substantial and vital part of global health and social care systems.