Dolly Parton’s health struggle highlights a crisis facing millions of American caregivers

In October, country music icon Dolly Parton revealed her cancer diagnosis in a video titled "I ain’t dead yet!" Parton's husband, Carl Dean, passed away in March 2025 after a long illness. Although the couple never disclosed the nature of his disease, Parton did mention that he had been unwell for an extended period. Caregiving often comes with a heavy toll on one's health, as seen in Parton's case.

Jason Resendez, CEO of the National Alliance for Caregiving, highlighted that 23% of caregivers struggle to prioritize their own health, with higher percentages among female, LGBTQ+, Latino, and lower-income caregivers. Nancy Slavin, a 24-hour caregiver for her mother in Oregon, had neglected her own health and routine cancer screenings due to her commitment to her mother.

Even those who provide long-distance care, like Heidi Lescanec in Vancouver, can experience burnout and self-neglect. The average caregiver spends 27 hours a week on care, with many working 40 hours or more. Financial constraints limit caregivers' ability to hire help, leaving them with limited breaks from their demanding roles.

Nearly a quarter of caregivers report feelings of loneliness, as they may miss out on social opportunities due to their caregiving responsibilities. Even caregivers with financial resources and access to medical care can struggle to prioritize self-care. Allison Applebaum, a professor of geriatrics, explains that the emotional connection between caregiver and care recipient can make it difficult for caregivers to let go of control and focus on their own well-being.