General public definition
- Informal caregivers typically provide care to a family member or friend without being paid for the work.
- The care may be provided every day or occasionally, and for a short or a long period of time.
Academic definition
- Informal caregivers typically provide unpaid care daily, or occasionally, and for a short or long time.
- The informal caregiver’s involvement or role is primarily characterized by a personal relationship, rather than by a professional relationship with monetary compensation.
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