![](https://blog.fieldstonecommunities.com/hubfs/caregiver-coping-grief-grieving-iStock_000079723053_Medium.jpg)
An informal caregiver is an unpaid family member, spouse, neighbor or friend who is actively involved in caring for a loved one’s medical needs and day-to-day tasks. A formal caregiver is a paid worker who assists with the same activities in one’s home or in a care setting such as a senior living community.