Young caregivers: Balancing the stress, developing empathy (The Straits Times, 19 Oct 2024)
19 November 2024
Many older adults rely on informal caregivers, such as their adult children or foreign domestic workers. In a series published on 19 Oct 2024, The Straits Times highlighted the rise of younger caregivers amidst the backdrop of an ageing society, and featured Gen Z caregivers who face unique challenges when caring for their loved ones.
GERI Research Associate, Araviinthansai Subramaniam was quoted in the article, sharing insights from a publication based on his Master’s thesis: “For young caregivers, role conflict and emotional strain can result as they balance the challenges of caregiving with striving for typical milestones in their late teens and 20s, such as entering tertiary education, beginning their careers, growing their autonomy or wanting to leave the parental home to start a family upon marriage.”
He also highlighted the potential for young caregivers to develop critical skills like problem-solving, leadership, as well as qualities like empathy through their caregiving experience.