Seniors require assistance for many different long-term health problems; anything from chronic conditions such as arthritis, to cataracts or Alzheimer's disease. Caregivers help with personal care, medical care such as assistance with medical treatments or procedures, care management with tasks such as scheduling and transportation to medical appointments and general housekeeping.

An important factor that will impact caregiving for seniors in years to come is the overall aging of the population. A Chartered Accountant might say something like, “the numbers speak for themselves.” When you look at the numbers the growing imbalance is clear. As it is now, one out four seniors are currently caregivers themselves. The elderly are living longer yet the generations beneath them are not as large. As we move forward we're bound to tip the scales. Studies have shown that many younger seniors (63-68 years-old), and the very soon to be senior crowd (54-62 year-olds), are the ones lending their loving hands. Census data indicates this will continue and soon become problematic if more programs are not created.

The burden continues even once receipants enter into care facilities full-time. Family caregivers reduce costs by providing additional services over and above the basic that the facility provides.

Just over half of the caregivers, 54%, in a recent survey reported they coped "very well" while 42% said they were "okay". People providing care to seniors are balancing this with other responsibilities, such as jobs and care for their own children. About 43% of caregivers fall within the very soon to be senior group (aged 55 and below), is any surprise they generally are women as well.