Caregivers and Care Recipients Are Watching Together

An AARP survey showed a majority (83%) of caregivers and care recipients watch movies, TV shows, and videos together. Caregivers reported that watching together can provide a way to bond and relieve stress.

Caregivers consume media in a wide variety of ways, including via cable television, social media, and streaming services. Preferred genres, streaming services, and cable channels vary, suggesting there are a number of ways to reach caregivers.

Most (78%) caregivers reported watching TV, movies, or videos together was a way to spend time with the adult they care for. Over half (58%) of caregivers used watching TV/movies as a way to get a break from providing care, and most (85%) reported watching as a way to relieve stress and relax.

Caregivers said they like watching entertainment with characters they can relate to (78%), and around half (54%) would like to see more stories that depict caregivers. Six in ten caregivers reported they have seen caregiving story lines on screen, and most agree the caregiver portrayal was realistic (65%) and relatable (75%).

Methodology

The survey of 1,007 U.S. adults ages 18 and older was conducted November 2–19, 2023. All participants either currently provide unpaid care for an adult loved one or have provided care in the last three years and watch tv, movies, or videos at home. The sampling included those reached by landline, cell phone, and online. The questionnaire lasted 17 minutes by phone and 13 minutes online. The data were weighted by Census Division, race/ethnicity, gender, and age.

For more information, please contact Alessandra Raimondi at araimondi@aarp.org. For media inquiries, contact External Relations at media@aarp.org.