GENDER DIFFERENCES IN EMPLOYMENT AND THE INFORMAL CARE OF ADULTS

This study compares gender differences among employed informal caregiv ers of disabled adults. Female caregivers, as compared to male caregiv ers, had significantly lower household incomes and were assisting care recipients with higher levels of cognitive and behavioral impairments . Female caregivers also reported higher levels of caregiving strain, work interference, and role strain, after controlling for socio-demogr aphic characteristics and caregiving and employment resources and dema nds. Female employees were significantly more likely than males to end orse a number of work place programs and benefits as helpful in meetin g their adult care responsibilities. The implications of these finding s are discussed.