Understanding Carents: Research, Surveys and Real-Life Insights

At Carents, we believe in the power of evidence. Research matters because it shines a light on a group that has too often been overlooked: the adult children caring for ageing parents. These “carents” form a hidden army across the UK, balancing careers, families and financial responsibilities while quietly taking on the complex needs of their elderly loved ones.

Unlike other carers, carents rarely receive formal recognition or tailored support. Their experiences are different from carers of children, spouses or those with diagnosed conditions, yet their role is no less demanding.

Our research exists to make sure their voices are heard, their needs are understood and the lack of support is no longer ignored.

For years, most research into carers has focused on groups already recognised by health and social care services. Carents fall between the gaps. They are expected to manage GP appointments, banking, transport, shopping and personal care. Because their role is not always labelled as “caring,” they are often invisible to policymakers, employers and service providers.

Our research aims to change that. By documenting the lived experiences of carents, we provide evidence that shows:

• Their needs are unique compared with other carer groups.

• Support systems are inconsistent and often fail to recognise their responsibilities.

• The impact is significant, affecting careers, health, finances, relationships and family life.

Through surveys, focus groups and practical studies, Carents explores the reality of life as a carent. Time and again, our findings reveal the same truth: while other carers may have defined services, allowances or workplace policies, those caring for elderly parents are left to cope alone.

This lack of support has real consequences:

• Employment: carents often reduce hours, turn down promotions or leave the workforce entirely.

• Finances: hidden costs of caring, from transport to healthcare, create financial strain.

• Wellbeing: juggling the responsibilities of work, family and ageing parents leads to exhaustion, stress and isolation.
  
  

Our research demonstrates that carents are not a small minority. They represent millions of people across the UK. Yet the systems designed to support carers rarely consider their specific circumstances.

Carents research is more than data. It is a call to action. Each study we publish is designed to influence change across workplaces, industries and government. Employers can better understand the pressures facing mid-life staff. Policymakers can see where existing frameworks fall short. Banks, retailers and service providers can design products that make life easier, not harder.

By shining a light on the hidden contribution of carents, we are transforming awareness into advocacy. Our goal is simple: to ensure that no adult caring for an elderly parent feels invisible, unsupported or alone.

Research is only powerful when it is shared. That is why Carents makes its findings available for families, employers, professionals and communities who want to learn more about the realities of caring for elderly parents.

Every survey, focus group and insight contributes to a growing evidence base that will help to redefine what support for carers should look like. Carents deserve to be recognised as a distinct group, with distinct needs, and with access to services and policies that reflect their reality.

By exploring our research, you are joining a movement that challenges assumptions, sparks solutions and ensures that carents everywhere are finally seen and supported.

Browse our latest research below and help us shape a fairer, more compassionate future for all who care for elderly parents.