Men Take On Growing Roles in Eldercare
As memory care costs soar, millions of American men are providing hands-on care for aging family members at home.
Updated on Sept. 30, 2026 in Eldercare
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Would you choose to provide full-time home care for a relative with a serious medical condition?
Approximately 21 million men in the United States currently serve in caregiving roles for aging relatives. Many, like Dugan Meredith, choose to provide in-home care to avoid the high expenses associated with professional facilities.
Why it matters
High monthly costs for memory care facilities have pushed many families to seek alternatives. Providing home-based care allows families to maintain control over their loved ones' environments while navigating complex health challenges.
Professional memory care facilities often cost between $10,000 and $15,000 per month. There are currently 21 million men in the United States serving in various caregiving roles for family members.
The players
Dugan Meredith
He is an active family caregiver and the founder of the nonprofit organization Taking Care of Granny.
Taking Care of Granny
This is a nonprofit organization established by Dugan Meredith to support those involved in family caregiving.
The details
Dugan Meredith provides daily care for his mother-in-law, who suffers from frontotemporal dementia. The family manages her condition at home by using a hospice medical bed and preparing pureed meals, while Meredith documents his experiences through social media.
Timeline
September 30, 2026: Article publication date.
Culture Shift
The transition toward home-based care reflects a broader movement where families increasingly bypass traditional institutional models to manage eldercare independently. This shift highlights a societal change in how households distribute labor and manage the logistical realities of long-term health.
Families facing similar caregiving requirements can expect to spend significant time coordinating medical equipment like hospice beds and specialized nutrition. Adopting this model requires a long-term commitment of personal time and resources to maintain a home environment suitable for dementia care.
The takeaway
Caregiving at home requires a structured plan for managing both the medical needs of the patient and the mental health of the caregiver. Families should explore local support networks and nonprofit resources to supplement the heavy burden of daily, hands-on care.
Further reading
Learn more about the challenges and resources available for Eldercare.
Source note: This article includes information reported by WENG 98.1FM, 107.5 FM & 1530 AM.
Live Poll
Would you choose to provide full-time home care for a relative with a serious medical condition?
