On November 4, 2025, the Claude Pepper Center at Florida State University (FSU) and AARP Florida held the first Florida Caregiving Summit in downtown Tallahassee. The event addressed the needs of Florida’s 4.4 million family caregivers, who often provide unpaid care to older relatives. By 2030, one in five Floridians is expected to be 65 or older. The summit brought together caregivers, policymakers, and experts to discuss solutions and resources.
FSU President Richard McCullough and Claude Pepper Center Director Dawn Carr opened the event. McCullough spoke about the need for policy and organizational support to help families access resources. Carr discussed the physical and financial challenges caregivers face and the need for better support systems.
The summit included three panel discussions. The first panel, led by Carr, focused on the financial impact of caregiving. Panelists talked about costs such as home modifications and lost income, as well as available financial resources. They also discussed hidden expenses that can add up over time…