The hidden backbone of family care

Family caregiving across North Dakota often happens quietly, but its impact is anything but small.

In this episode of The Backstory, Michael Standaert discusses his reporting on family caregivers and the enormous role they play in helping loved ones remain at home.

The conversation centers on new data that puts a dollar value on work that many families simply consider part of daily life, even as it consumes time, energy, and emotional reserves.

“They estimated it's about $1.27 billion annually, the amount of work that family caregivers put in in North Dakota… It's a tremendous amount of work and stress… It's often hard to see, and it's not often thought of as work.” – Michael Standaert, NDNC

The episode also explores how caregiving responsibilities extend far beyond basic daily tasks. Caregivers may help manage finances, attend medical appointments, and navigate complex healthcare systems, often taking notes and researching conditions so their loved ones can better understand what doctors are saying.

Michael also discusses the need for stronger community awareness and support systems, noting that caregivers can easily find their time fully consumed by responsibilities.

Resources for Family Caregivers: 

North Dakota Aging & Disability Resource Link
Website: https://ndcarechoice.hhs.nd.gov/
Phone: 855-462-5465

North Dakota Family Caregiver Support Program
Website: https://www.hhs.nd.gov/adults-and-aging/family-caregiver-support-program
Phone: 855-465-5465 and 1-866-614-6005

Powerful Tools for Caregivers — North Dakota State University Extension
Website: https://www.ndsu.edu/agriculture/extension/programs/powerful-tools-caregivers
Phone: 701-231-5948

Legal Services of North Dakota
Website: https://www.legalassist.org
Phone: 800-634-5263 (under age 60) or 866-621-9886 (age 60+)