A caregiver, often called a carer, is a person who provides assistance and supervision to someone who cannot fully care for themselves. This can be a family member, friend, volunteer or paid worker. In many contexts the work is described as an occupation or role devoted to meeting another person’s physical, emotional and practical needs.

Typical responsibilities

Caregivers carry out a wide range of tasks depending on the care recipient’s needs. Common duties include:

  • Personal care such as bathing, dressing, toileting and feeding.
  • Medication management and basic health monitoring.
  • Household tasks: cooking, cleaning, shopping and transportation.
  • Companionship, emotional support and social engagement.
  • Coordination with health professionals, therapists and community services.

Care is provided to diverse groups: children, older adults, and people with chronic conditions or disabilities.

Types and settings

Caregivers work in many settings. Family members often give unpaid care at home, while professionals may work for agencies, private households, long-term care facilities or hospitals. When the assignment is short-term and focuses on a child, the person may be referred to as a babysitter; caring specifically for an infant is sometimes called infant care or childminding, and a casual child caregiver is often labeled a babysitter.

History and development

Historically most caregiving was provided within families. Over the last century, industrialization, changing social structures and professionalization led to a larger paid caregiving workforce and formal training programs. Contemporary systems mix unpaid family care with regulated professional roles and a growing focus on certification, rights and quality standards.

Importance and distinctions

Caregivers are essential to health and social systems. Unpaid family caregivers contribute substantial economic value and often face emotional and financial strain. Professional caregivers may be trained and regulated, and their scope of practice varies by jurisdiction. Support measures include respite services, education, workplace protections and community programs.

For those exploring caregiving as a career or seeking support, consult local job descriptions and resources to understand qualifications, compensation and legal responsibilities, or follow basic guidance on what the role entails in your area via relevant job and resource listings (role overview).