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We Can No Longer Ignore the Value of Caregiving
Caregiving is not just a personal crisis, but also an economic and social one. As we continue to ignore its value, our society will suffer the consequences. It’s time for businesses, policymakers, and individuals to reevaluate their roles in supporting caregivers.
The financial value that caregivers provide cannot be overstated. A recent report found that family caregiving alone is worth $873.5 billion annually. However, these contributions often go unnoticed and unvalued, leaving millions of individuals struggling in silence. It’s our choice: we can either take them for granted or recognize their essential work.
As a healthcare company, Otsuka believes it’s our responsibility to stand with caregivers – the way they stand with their loved ones. We’ve integrated comprehensive caregiver benefits into our corporate structure, including flexible work arrangements, paid caregiver leave, and tailored mental health and financial planning resources. By providing these benefits, we’re not only supporting our employees but also investing in our company’s and society’s futures.
Employers have the power to make a difference. It’s no longer enough to simply provide employee assistance programs or generic support services. We need to integrate caregiver-centric policies into our daily operations, ensuring that those who are caring for their loved ones are not left behind.
But this issue extends far beyond the workplace. National and state governments have a critical responsibility to aid caregivers and incentivize other sectors to do the same. Expanding caregiver tax credits, prioritizing payment, training, respite care, and health benefits programs would provide much-needed financial relief and contribute to systemic change.
It’s time for us to reevaluate our priorities and recognize caregiving as the essential work that it is. We have a choice: we can continue to ignore their value or join forces to create a future where caregivers are seen, supported, and valued.
As we move forward, I invite my fellow business leaders to join Otsuka in building a society that supports caregivers – not just those who provide for them.
Source: https://www.forbes.com/sites/otsuka/2025/05/01/we-can-no-longer-ignore-the-value-of-caregiving/
