Upcoming Medicare changes for 2026 increase costs and strain caregivers nationwide.

Caregivers nationwide are facing increased financial and emotional strain due to upcoming Medicare changes for 2026, which expand coverage gaps and raise out-of-pocket costs. Many, like Idaho’s Carla Romagnano, are spending an average of $7,242 annually—26% of their income—on elder care, often depleting savings as long-term care insurance runs out. Changes include higher deductibles, reduced benefits like transportation and meal reimbursements, and new prior authorizations for medical devices. Federal training disruptions from layoffs and a government shutdown have complicated enrollment, especially for the “sandwich generation” balancing care for children and aging parents. Advocates are pushing for federal support, such as the proposed Credit for Caring Act offering a $5,000 tax credit, while community resources remain vital but insufficient for many families navigating a complex and evolving system.