CARE GIVING LEAVE

Who Are Military Caregivers?

A military caregiver is a family member, friend, or other acquaintance who provides a broad range of care and assistance for, or manages the care of, a current or former military service member with a disabling injury or illness (physical or mental) that was incurred during military service.

Advocates and policymakers have all proposed different definitions and eligibility criteria for military caregivers, but we use the term generically throughout this report to include anyone who serves in this capacity for any current service member or veteran regardless of whether they are related to the individual, live with the individual, or are caring for a person with injuries or physical or mental illnesses.