I always thought a caregiver was someone who was paid to come in to your house to help care for an elderly or disabled person. In other words, a professional. I found it strange that Wikipedia said "caregiver" is normally used to refer to "unpaid" relatives or friends that assist with daily activities and living. I wonder how many people out there thought the same way I did, and didn't realize they were the caregiver.
An aside: The UK and Australia general use the word "carers" instead of caregivers. Whatever work you prefer, "care" is the essential part.
Thanks for an interesting question.
Carol
My opinion of a definiation for 'caretaker' should be any person such as a relative, friend, volunteer, spouse, or organization that takes care of a person or group of people that are either mental, physical, disable, or elderly that cannot live by themselves without assistance. As for the pay, I think some people now can qualify to be paid a certain amount but not sure. Still learning all the nicks and crannies of being a caretaker.