The Impact of Caregiving Length and Intensity on Labor Force Participation Among Middle-Aged Canadians: An Analysis of Canadian Longitudinal Study on Aging Data.

Abstract

To assess the association between caregiving length/intensity and labor force participation among middle-aged Canadians. We used baseline data from the Canadian Longitudinal Study on Aging. Labor force participation status included working full-time, part-time, part retirement, complete retirement, and nonparticipation. We defined caregiving length as short-term versus long-term, and intensity as low, medium, and high. Multinomial logistic regressions and instrumental variable method were used. Compared with non-caregivers, long-term and high-intensity caregivers were more likely to be completely retired, partly retired, and nonparticipants. Short-term and high-intensity caregivers were more likely to be completely retired, partly retired, and nonparticipants for women. Our findings emphasize the importance of considering caregiving intensity and length. Prioritizing support for long-term and high-intensity caregivers and promoting partial retirement or part-time working opportunities could help retain caregivers in the labor force.