Caregivers Out Loud

How do you maintain an intimate relationship when you become a caregiver for your spouse or partner? Sharing life as a couple means facing and overcoming countless challenges. For so many, the ultimate challenge begins when an illness is uncovered, and one of you must become a caregiver to the other. Rene faced this transition when her husband of 20 years was diagnosed with Parkinsons in his mid-40s. In the two decades since his diagnosis, the couple has navigated a dramatic shift in household and relationship responsibilities and must constantly work at alternative ways to maintain intimacy and joy in an often difficult day-to-day. In this episode, Rene Smyth details the ups and downs of how their relationship has changed, and Dr. Linda Franchi, a community counsellor with the Parkinson Wellness Projects, delves into the many facets of intimacy and the adjustments and adaptations spousal caregivers must embrace. Find harmony between the caregiver and romantic partner relationships: Resources: https://parkinsonwellness.ca/https://www.youtube.com/@ParkinsonSocietyBC https://alzheimer.ca/en/help-support/im-living-dementia/managing-changes-your-abilities/how-your-intimate-relationships-can https://www.familycaregiversbc.ca/emotions-of-caregiving/the-value-of-peer-support/ https://www.familycaregiversbc.ca/caregiver-learning-center/read-resources/parallel-paths-the-changes-experienced-in-the-caregiving-relationship Family Caregivers of BC Caregiver Support Line - 1-877-520-3267 (Monday through Friday 8:30am to 4pm PT) Connect With Us! To read a full transcript of each episode, visit the Family Caregivers of BC website https://www.familycaregiversbc.ca/podcast Visit us at our office: #6 – 3318 Oak Street, Victoria, BC V8X 1R1 Hours are Monday through Friday, 8:30 am to 4:00 pm Telephone: (250) 384-0408 Toll-Free Line Within BC: 1-877-520-3267 Fax: (250) 361-2660 Email: info@familycaregiversbc.ca Facebook https://www.facebook.com/FamilyCaregiversBC/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/familycaregiversofbc/ LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/18122187 Twitter https://twitter.com/caringbc Thank you! BC Ministry of Health - Patients as Partners Initiative - https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/health/about-bc-s-health-care-system/partners/patients Organized Sound Productions - https://www.organizedsound.ca/

How do you begin the difficult dialogue around end-of-life wishes for your care recipient? When you are the caregiver for someone whose health is declining, the reality of death can be overshadowing and feel frightening to acknowledge. So often, it’s as though we fear that simply speaking about death will speed it to our door. Karla Kerr, a funeral director and death doula in Victoria, BC, sees things differently. She approaches conversations with families who are facing or have just experienced death in an exploratory and compassionate way that recognizes death is inevitable. Respecting and upholding the wishes of care recipients can only be accomplished through practical, values-centred communication. Death has a tendency to reveal to us what is most important; engaging in these conversations can have a tremendous impact on the depth and intensity of our relationships, especially when we prioritize them when we still have plenty of time, rather than waiting until the end. Discover how Karla’s experiences with hundreds of families at this pivotal moment can inform your own conversations with your care recipient: Resources: https://karlakerr.ca/ https://www.virtualhospice.ca/Assets/CHPCA%20caregivers_guide_2015_en_20170314094930.pdf https://www.familycaregiversbc.ca/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/After-Death-Checklist-Government-of-BC-1.pdfhttps://www.familycaregiversbc.ca/archives/19255https://www.chpca.ca/ https://www.virtualhospice.ca/en_US/Main+Site+Navigation/Home/Support/Support.aspx

What difficulties develop when a child becomes a caregiver to their own parent? Studies show that young caregivers make up at least 12% of Canadian youth. One of these young people is Kristie Mar. At just 16 years old, Kristie set aside a significant part of her adolescence to become the sole carer for her mother, who was navigating schizophrenia and anorexia. The medical professionals, counsellors, and groups from whom she sought assistance, however, never gave her the title of “caregiver.” As such, it took her years to think of herself in this way or discover the resources that search term could unlock. Today, Kristie is a medical student and an active participant in this community. She wants to help increase awareness and resources for fellow adolescents who are thrust, so often unprepared and unsupported, into the role of caregiver for their family members. Hear the difficulties a young caregiver faced, caring on her own, including: Resources: https://www.familycaregiversbc.ca/young-caregivers-2 https://www.familycaregiversbc.ca/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/Managing-Expectations-April-2020-1.pdf https://www.familycaregiversbc.ca/podcast/episode-11-how-to-use-writing-for-healing-and-self-carehttps://www.familycaregiversbc.ca/podcast/episode-14-creativity-as-a-form-of-self-careConnect With Us! To read a full transcript of each episode, visit the Family Caregivers of BC website https://www.familycaregiversbc.ca/podcast Visit us at our office: #6 – 3318 Oak Street, Victoria, BC V8X 1R1 Hours are Monday through Friday, 8:30 am to 4:00 pm Telephone: (250) 384-0408 Toll-Free Line Within BC: 1-877-520-3267 Fax: (250) 361-2660 Email: info@familycaregiversbc.ca Facebook https://www.facebook.com/FamilyCaregiversBC/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/familycaregiversofbc/ LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/18122187 X / Twitter https://twitter.com/caringbc Thank you! BC Ministry of Health - Patients as Partners Initiative - https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/health/about-bc-s-health-care-system/partners/patients Organized Sound Productions - https://www.organizedsound.ca/

How can you build a healthier relationship with death and dying that will benefit both caregiver and recipient? Aaron Yukich is an end-of-life doula, mindfulness practitioner, and hospice care worker. In his work with the Family Caregivers of BC Caregiver Support Line, Aaron incorporates meaning-making and self-reflection into his sessions with caregivers, helping them uncover new ways to provide support to their care recipients without overlooking their own well-being. The end-of-life process has many varied aspects. Aaron helps caregivers navigate this intricate spiritual and emotional experience with grace, through activities and mindsets that can offer comfort and even joy. He also guides them in practical considerations, such as establishing often-overlooked financial and personal mental health support structures. Aaron shares his holistic perspective on providing end-of-life care: Resources: https://betterathome.ca/ https://www.islandhealth.ca/learn-about-health/seniors/dementia-video-serieshttps://www.chpca.ca/listings/https://www.virtualhospice.ca/https://livingmyculture.ca/ https://www.familycaregiversbc.ca/archives/video/navigating-the-end-of-life-a-road-map-for-caregivers https://bookshop.org/p/books/finding-peace-at-the-end-of-life-a-death-doula-s-guide-for-families-and-caregivers-henry-fersko-weiss/13032460?ean=9781590035023 https://www.amazon.ca/Caring-Dying-Doula-Approach-Meaningful/dp/1573246964https://bcbh.ca/groupsandevents/https://www.talkdeath.com/ Connect With Us! To read a full transcript of each episode, visit the Family Caregivers of BC website https://www.familycaregiversbc.ca/podcast Visit us at our office: #6 – 3318 Oak Street, Victoria, BC V8X 1R1 Hours are Monday through Friday, 8:30 am to 4:00 pm Telephone: (250) 384-0408 Toll-Free Line Within BC: 1-877-520-3267 Fax: (250) 361-2660 Email: info@familycaregiversbc.ca Facebook https://www.facebook.com/FamilyCaregiversBC/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/familycaregiversofbc/ LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/18122187 Twitter https://twitter.com/caringbc Thank you! BC Ministry of Health - Patients as Partners Initiative - https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/health/about-bc-s-health-care-system/partners/patients Organized Sound Productions - https://www.organizedsound.ca/

How would you retain your sense of self if you required full-time care? When Brooke Ellison was 11 years old, a car accident left her a ventilator-dependent quadriplegic. Her mother Jean stepped into the role of full-time caregiver, and their familial and caregiving relationship balance has continued for over thirty years. Dr. Brooke Ellison graduated from Harvard, wrote two memoirs, and is a frequent public speaker on resilience, leadership, and hope. In this episode, she reflects on her experiences as a care recipient—both then and now. Specifically, Brooke shares how she navigates disability and how her definition of this term has changed and grown over the years. Brooke shares what care feels like from the other side of the table: Resources: https://www.brookeellison.com/ https://bookshop.org/p/books/look-both-ways-brooke-ellison/18034792?ean=9781951568184 https://www.amazon.ca/Miracles-Happen-Mother-Daughter-Journey/dp/0786867701 Connect With Us! To read a full transcript of each episode, visit the Family Caregivers of BC website https://www.familycaregiversbc.ca/podcast Visit us at our office: #6 – 3318 Oak Street, Victoria, BC V8X 1R1 Hours are Monday through Friday, 8:30 am to 4:00 pm Telephone: (250) 384-0408 Toll-Free Line Within BC: 1-877-520-3267 Fax: (250) 361-2660 Email: info@familycaregiversbc.ca Facebook https://www.facebook.com/FamilyCaregiversBC/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/familycaregiversofbc/ LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/18122187 Twitter https://twitter.com/caringbc Thank you! BC Ministry of Health - Patients as Partners Initiative - https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/health/about-bc-s-health-care-system/partners/patients Organized Sound Productions - https://www.organizedsound.ca/

How do you honour both yourself and your family member when giving full-time care? In this episode, Jean Ellison speaks about her experience as a full-time caregiver to her daughter, Brooke, whose story of life as a ventilator-dependent quadriplegic is well-known and inspirational. For more than 30 years, Jean Ellison has balanced the roles of full-time caregiver and mother. While it was always clear to Jean that Brooke would live at home and not in a care facility, accepting her new reality and career trajectory was not a simple process. Jean strives to find happiness and laughter in every day, treating each one as a clean slate for both herself and her daughter. Get a glimpse into Jean’s challenging and heartening experience: Resources: https://www.brookeellison.com/ Connect With Us! To read a full transcript of each episode, visit the Family Caregivers of BC website https://www.familycaregiversbc.ca/podcast Visit us at our office: #6 – 3318 Oak Street, Victoria, BC V8X 1R1 Hours are Monday through Friday, 8:30 am to 4:00 pm Telephone: (250) 384-0408 Toll-Free Line Within BC: 1-877-520-3267 Fax: (250) 361-2660 Email: info@familycaregiversbc.ca Facebook https://www.facebook.com/FamilyCaregiversBC/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/familycaregiversofbc/ LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/18122187 Twitter https://twitter.com/caringbc Thank you! BC Ministry of Health - Patients as Partners Initiative - https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/health/about-bc-s-health-care-system/partners/patients Organized Sound Productions - https://www.organizedsound.ca/

At some point in our lives, we’ll all be faced with a tough decision we didn’t see coming. In most caregiving situations, people enter the caregiving role with love and passion. Then pretty soon, they begin to see some of the bigger implications, such as how finances are a big factor in the choices that affect the care recipient OR the caregiver themself. In today’s episode, we chat with Shannon Lee Simmons, a Certified Financial Planner and the author of a new book “No Regret Decisions: Making Good Choices During Difficult Times”, to tackle some of the anxiety and emotional stress for caregivers that come with making important financial decisions. And answer the question, how do we make good decisions during difficult times? Resources: Shannon Lee Simmon’s new book: “No-Regret Decisions: Making Good Choices During Difficult Times” - https://bookshop.org/p/books/no-regret-decisions-making-difficult-decisions-in-difficult-times-shannon-lee-simmons/15788581?ean=9781443463454 Connect with Shannon - https://shannonleesimmons.com/ FCBC Overview of Financial General Resources, Tax Benefits and Credits for Caregivers - https://www.familycaregiversbc.ca/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/Guide-to-Financial-Assistance-for-Caregivers.pdf Involuntary Separation Article - https://www.familycaregiversbc.ca/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/Involuntary-Separation.pdf Government of Canada Benefits Finder - https://srv138.services.gc.ca/daf/q?id=37d7bcd6-f3f3-492b-ac3e-b869d7fb005c&goctemplateculture=en-ca Family Caregivers of BC Caregiver Support Line: 1-877-520-3267 (Mon-Fri 8:30am-4pm PT) Canada Revenue Agency General Enquiries Line: 1-800-959-8281 (Mon-Fri 8 am- 8pm and Saturday 9am-5pm) Connect With Us! To read a full transcript of each episode, visit the Family Caregivers of BC website https://www.familycaregiversbc.ca/podcast Visit us at our office: #6 – 3318 Oak Street, Victoria, BC V8X 1R1 Hours are Monday through Friday, 8:30 am and 4:00 pm Telephone: (250) 384-0408 Toll-Free Line Within BC: 1-877-520-3267 Fax: (250) 361-2660 Email: info@familycaregiversbc.ca Facebook https://www.facebook.com/FamilyCaregiversBC/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/familycaregiversofbc/ LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/18122187 Twitter https://twitter.com/caringbc Thank you! BC Ministry of Health - Patients as Partners Initiative - https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/health/about-bc-s-health-care-system/partners/patients Organized Sound Productions - https://www.organizedsound.ca/

Many caregivers are supporting care recipients from a long distance. This form of caregiving brings with it a unique set of challenges as we try to provide support from afar. In this episode, Bill guides a panel of long distance caregivers, Mary Chan, Karla Wilson, and Victoria Lougheed, through a dynamic conversation filled with positive energy and laughter. The foursome came together to talk about their challenges of caring while not being able to physically be there, and to share some insights including some beautiful moments along the path that have made their caregiving journey a memorable experience. Resources: Caregiving From A Distance - https://www.familycaregiversbc.ca/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/Caregiving-from-a-Distance.pdfTips For Long Distance Caregivers - https://www.familycaregiversbc.ca/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/Tips-for-Long-Distance-Caregivers.pdfClosing the Gap - https://www.familycaregiversbc.ca/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/Closing-the-Gap.pdfCaring For Yourself While Caring For Others (webinar) - https://www.familycaregiversbc.ca/archives/video/caring-for-yourself-while-caring-for-others Connect With Us! Family Caregivers of BC Website https://www.familycaregiversbc.ca/ Visit us at our office: #6 – 3318 Oak Street, Victoria, BC V8X 1R1 Hours are Monday through Friday, 8:30 am and 4:00 pm. Telephone: (250) 384-0408 Toll-Free Line Within BC: 1-877-520-3267 Fax: (250) 361-2660 Email: info@familycaregiversbc.ca Facebook https://www.facebook.com/FamilyCaregiversBC/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/familycaregiversofbc/ LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/18122187 Twitter https://twitter.com/caringbc Thank you! BC Ministry of Health - Patients as Partners Initiative https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/health/about-bc-s-health-care-system/partners/patients Organized Sound Productions https://www.organizedsound.ca/

The experience of living and caring for someone with dementia is not always a universal experience and there can be different situations and patterns. However, there are some similar challenges caregivers face when trying to communicate with care recipients who are living with dementia. In this episode, Bill Israel speaks with Amelia Gillies, a Support and Education Coordinator with the Alzheimer's Society of BC about caring for someone living with dementia. Amelia shares stories she's heard on the support line, and also her own personal experience caregiving for people with dementia. Listen in as she provides education and suggestions for you to try when you’re caregiving. Resources: We’d love to share the First Link® Dementia Helpline as our primary resource: English: 1-800-936-6033 Monday to Friday 9 am to 8 pmCantonese and Mandarin: 1-833-674-5007 Monday to Friday 9 am to 4 pmPunjabi: 1-833-674-5003 Monday to Friday 9 am to 4 pmAlzheimer’s Society of BChttps://alzheimer.ca/bc/Creativity as a Form of Self Care episode https://www.familycaregiversbc.ca/podcast/episode-14-creativity-as-a-form-of-self-careFamily Caregivers of BC Caregiver Support Line at 1-877-520-3267 Connect With Us! Family Caregivers of BC Website https://www.familycaregiversbc.ca/ Visit us at our office: #6 – 3318 Oak Street, Victoria, BC V8X 1R1 Hours are Monday through Friday, 8:30 am and 4:00 pm Telephone: (250) 384-0408 Toll-Free Line Within BC: 1-877-520-3267 Fax: (250) 361-2660 Email: info@familycaregiversbc.ca Facebook https://www.facebook.com/FamilyCaregiversBC/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/familycaregiversofbc/ LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/18122187 Twitter https://twitter.com/caringbc Thank you! BC Ministry of Health - Patients as Partners Initiative https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/health/about-bc-s-health-care-system/partners/patients Organized Sound Productions https://www.organizedsound.ca/

How can we break down barriers and humanize the caregiving process? Through the power of pure emotion, unlocked through music. No matter what your musical background is, music used intentionally can be beneficial to improve health and well-being. Not only for the care recipient, but for you as well, as a caregiver. Today, we’ll hear how music enhances the care experience. I sat down with Bev Foster, a co-founder of the Room 217 Foundation and its Executive Director. In this episode, Bev shares her experience caring for her dad and also for her grandmother who journeyed through dementia. Bev incorporated music into his palliative care and found that it was a very helpful tool both for her father and for herself. So much so, that Bev started a foundation to share music as a caregiving tool with other caregivers. Resources: Music Care by Room 217 Foundationhttps://www.musiccare.org/ Connect With Us! Family Caregivers of BC Website https://www.familycaregiversbc.ca/ Visit us at our office: #6 – 3318 Oak Street, Victoria, BC V8X 1R1 Hours are Monday through Friday, 8:30 am and 4:00 pm. Telephone: (250) 384-0408 Toll-Free Line Within BC: 1-877-520-3267 Fax: (250) 361-2660 Email: info@familycaregiversbc.ca Facebook https://www.facebook.com/FamilyCaregiversBC/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/familycaregiversofbc/ LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/18122187 Twitter https://twitter.com/caringbc Thank you! BC Ministry of Health - Patients as Partners Initiative https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/health/about-bc-s-health-care-system/partners/patients Organized Sound Productions https://www.organizedsound.ca/

Engaging with creativity is a form of self-care that can benefit both a caregiver and a care recipient in many ways. In 2015, psychologist and art therapist Dr. Cathy Malchiodi cited multiple studies confirming that being creative can increase positive emotions, lessen depressive symptoms, reduce stress, decrease anxiety, and even improve immune system functioning. A 2016 study in The Journal of Positive Psychology supported these earlier findings, concluding that spending time on creative goals during a day is associated with higher activated positive affect (PA) on that day. Positive affect is the extent to which people experience positive moods, such as joy, happiness, and optimism. Higher positive effects lower stress and expand our perspective so that we notice more possibilities in our lives. In today’s episode, Bill chats with Faye Melling, a caregiver for her adult daughter. Faye talks about how being creative has helped her deal with some of the ups and downs in her caregiving journey. She also shares how her daughter is using artistic expression as a way to deal with some of the challenges she’s experiencing due to her condition. Resources: Article on outcomes of art therapy and colouring for caregivers of cancer patients: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1462388919301152Article on how creativity is an advantage for self-care: https://nyctherapy.com/therapists-nyc-blog/creativity-is-your-secret-advantage-for-mental-health-and-well-being/Study on benefits of creative arts leisure program to caregivers: https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/full/10.1177/2055102915581563 https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2804629/“Caregiver Well-Being” in the Resource Center at https://www.familycaregiversbc.ca/caregiver-learning-center/read-resources Connect With Us! Family Caregivers of BC Website https://www.familycaregiversbc.ca/ Toll-Free Line Within BC: 1-877-520-3267 Fax: (250) 361-2660 Email: info@familycaregiversbc.ca Facebook https://www.facebook.com/FamilyCaregiversBC/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/familycaregiversofbc/ LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/18122187 Twitter https://twitter.com/caringbc Thank you! BC Ministry of Health - Patients as Partners Initiative https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/health/about-bc-s-health-care-system/partners/patients Organized Sound Productions https://www.organizedsound.ca/

For many people as they age, living as long as they can in their own home is ideal. We love our comforts, our routine, and our independence. But there comes a time when the decision to have more support or to move into long-term care becomes a reality, whether because of a medical condition or safety concerns. This decision can be a significant challenge as there are many factors to consider when needing additional support. In this episode, Janet Power, Executive Director of Sunrise Senior Living in Victoria BC, shares great information around transitioning to residential care and steps for gaining more support for the care recipient and caregiver. Resources: Moving fromHome to Facility Flipbook FCBC Resource https://www.familycaregiversbc.ca/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/Moving-from-Home-to-Facility-Podcast-Resource-1.pdfFor Long Term Care, to arrange LTC through the Health Authority, call the local Home and Community Care Office. (The BC Health Authority General Enquiry Lines that we have listed in the back of our Quarterly Newsletter) https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/health/accessing-health-care/home-community-care/how-to-arrange-for-care If you are interested in receiving assisted living services or know of someone who might be in need of these services, you can contact the home and community care office of your health authority or you can have a health care professional make a referral on your behalf. https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/health/accessing-health-care/home-community-care/care-options-and-cost/assisted-livingFinding an Assisted Living Residence https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/health/assisted-living-in-bc/finding-an-assisted-living-residenceDon’t Judge a Book by its Cover- What to Look for in a Care Facility https://www.familycaregiversbc.ca/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/Facility-Selection-Checklist.pdfHow to Check Care Facility Records https://www.healthspace.ca/clients/viha/viha_website.nsf/CCFL-Main?OpenViewWho Pays for Care? https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/health/accessing-health-care/home-community-care/who-pays-for-care Online Tools and Apps: Route 65 was developed by EngAge BC, a non-profit operating arm of the BC Care Providers Association (BCCPA), in response to a visible gap in quality information about seniors’ living and wellness options in the province. On Route 65, seekers can find more information on independent living, assisted living, long-term care and home health care options. Route 65 also helps users navigate the seniors living and wellness continuum through our Glossary, Frequently Asked Questions and Resource pages, along with Walter, our 24-7 virtual concierge chatbot, who helps triage seekers to the most appropriate options. Call 1-877-955-6565 or learn more at https://route65.ca/. Connect With Us! Family Caregivers of BC Website https://www.familycaregiversbc.ca/ Toll-Free Line Within BC: 1-877-520-3267 Fax: (250) 361-2660 Email: info@familycaregiversbc.ca Facebook https://www.facebook.com/FamilyCaregiversBC/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/familycaregiversofbc/ LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/18122187 Twitter https://twitter.com/caringbc Thank you! BC Ministry of Health - Patients as Partners Initiative https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/health/about-bc-s-health-care-system/partners/patients Organized Sound Productions https://www.organizedsound.ca/

Once the decision has been made that placement in a care community is necessary, caregivers are often faced with the “what next” question. Because there are different levels of care and each community has a different ‘personality’, it’s very important to be as prepared as possible for the transition. In this episode, we chat with Kathy Ajas, who for the last 17-years has worked in the retirement industry, including independent living, assisted living, and short and long-term care. Together, we explore questions caregivers have when considering moving to a new level of care with their care recipient. Resources: COVID-19 Survey Highlights- the Impact of COVID-19 on Caregivers https://www.familycaregiversbc.ca/virtual-caregiver-resource/covid-19-survey-highlights/Moving fromHome to Facility Flipbook FCBC Resource https://www.familycaregiversbc.ca/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/Moving-from-Home-to-Facility-Podcast-Resource-1.pdfFor Long Term Care, to arrange LTC through the Health Authority, call the local Home and Community Care Office. (The BC Health Authority General Enquiry Lines that we have listed in the back of our Quarterly Newsletter). https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/health/accessing-health-care/home-community-care/how-to-arrange-for-care If you are interested in receiving assisted living services or know of someone who might be in need of these services, you can contact the home and community care office of your health authority or you can have a health care professional make a referral on your behalf. https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/health/accessing-health-care/home-community-care/care-options-and-cost/assisted-livingFinding an Assisted Living Residence https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/health/assisted-living-in-bc/finding-an-assisted-living-residenceDon’t Judge a Book by its Cover- What to Look for in a Care Facility https://www.familycaregiversbc.ca/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/Facility-Selection-Checklist.pdfHow to Check Care Facility Records https://www.healthspace.ca/clients/viha/viha_website.nsf/CCFL-Main?OpenViewWho Pays for Care? https://www.healthspace.ca/clients/viha/viha_website.nsf/CCFL-Main?OpenView Online Tools and Apps: Route 65 https://route65.ca/ Route 65 was developed by EngAge BC, a non-profit operating arm of the BC Care Providers Association (BCCPA), in response to a visible gap in quality information about seniors’ living and wellness options in the province. On Route 65, seekers can find more information on independent living, assisted living, long-term care and home health care options. Route 65 also helps users navigate the seniors living and wellness continuum through their Glossary, Frequently Asked Questions and Resource pages, along with Walter, their 24-7 virtual concierge chatbot, who helps triage seekers to the most appropriate options. Contact 1-877-955-6565. Connect With Us! Family Caregivers of BC Website https://www.familycaregiversbc.ca/ Toll-Free Line Within BC: 1-877-520-3267 Fax: (250) 361-2660 Email: info@familycaregiversbc.ca Facebook https://www.facebook.com/FamilyCaregiversBC/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/familycaregiversofbc/ LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/18122187 Twitter https://twitter.com/caringbc Thank you! BC Ministry of Health - Patients as Partners Initiative https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/health/about-bc-s-health-care-system/partners/patients Organized Sound Productions https://www.organizedsound.ca/

Research shows that family caregivers who list self-care as a priority can better provide care, are at lower risk of burnout and becoming ill, and find more joy in their role as a caregiver. Starting with small acts of self-care can create the opportunity to see the benefits. Calling a friend who lifts you up, accepting help, finding five minutes for a cup of tea in silence, or closing your eyes and breathing for 10 breaths are all acts of self-care. Today we'll hear Rick's story, who shares his caregiving experience with both of his parents. Like many caregivers, Rick didn’t expect to be thrown into a caregiving role when he was. He quickly took on the many roles needed to ensure his parents were safe and well-cared for. Caregiving became a full-time job and it was during this time that he started to see his own health and wellness decline. He turned to writing to help him process his experience and feelings and this became a positive and reliant self-care strategy for him. In sharing his caregiving story, we hope you enjoy and feel supported by Rick's point of voice and maybe even consider your own favourite moments of self-care. Resources: Walking the Talk of Self-Care: Practical Strategies for Caregivers Webinar https://www.familycaregiversbc.ca/video/walking-the-talk-of-self-care-practical-strategies-for-caregivers/Caregiver Burnout and Feeling Stuck Learning Video https://www.familycaregiversbc.ca/video/caregiver-burnout-and-feeling-stuck/Checking In on How You are Feeling Article https://www.familycaregiversbc.ca/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/Checking-In-On-How-You-Are-Feeling.pdfTaking Care of Yourself: Self-Care Strategies for Family and Friend Caregivers Flipbook https://www.familycaregiversbc.ca/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/Taking-Care-of-Yourself-Self-Care-for-Caregivers-Booklet.pdfLearn more about FCBC Intensive Journal Writing Program https://www.familycaregiversbc.ca/learn-about-our-intensive-journal-workshop-for-caregivers/What you Need to Know About Power of Attorney https://www.familycaregiversbc.ca/what-you-need-to-know-about-powers-of-attorney/ Online Tools and Apps: Wellness Together Canadahttps://wellnesstogether.ca/en-CA Connect With Us! Family Caregivers of BC Website https://www.familycaregiversbc.ca/ Toll-Free Line Within BC: 1-877-520-3267 Fax: (250) 361-2660 Email: info@familycaregiversbc.ca Facebook https://www.facebook.com/FamilyCaregiversBC/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/familycaregiversofbc/ LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/18122187 Twitter https://twitter.com/caringbc Thank you! BC Ministry of Health - Patients as Partners Initiative https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/health/about-bc-s-health-care-system/partners/patients Organized Sound Productions https://www.organizedsound.ca/

28% of Canadians or 1.8 million people, provided care to a family member or friend with a long-term health condition, disability or ageing need in the past year. Three-quarters of this group (6.1 million) were employed at the time, accounting for 35% of ALL employed Canadians. More and more people are becoming caregivers and a lot of these caregivers are balancing employment and caregiving. In today’s episode, we hear from Rachel, who not only witnessed at a young age her mother be a caregiver, but then found herself caring for her Mother in her adult life. Rachel is part of the ‘sandwich generation’, currently raising and nurturing her own child and family, maintaining a full-time job and caregiving for her mother in Ontario. Rachel is an employed caregiver. When we use the term ‘employed caregiver’ we do not mean someone with a formal job as a paid caregiver, but rather someone that manages paid employment and at the same time is responsible for caregiving for a family or friend. Referenced Report: https://vanierinstitute.ca/download/10536/ Highlights: Resources: https://alzheimer.ca/bc/en/help-support/find-support-bc/first-link-dementia-helpline https://www.familycaregiversbc.ca/video/supporting-a-family-caregiver-a-friendcolleague-and-or-employee-in-the-workplace/ https://www.familycaregiversbc.ca/video/work-care-a-balancing-act/ https://www.familycaregiversbc.ca/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/Support-an-Employed-Caregiver.pdf https://www.familycaregiversbc.ca/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/Strategies-to-Make-the-Workplace-More-Caregiver-Friendly.pdf http://hpcintegration.ca/media/60791/TWF%20TipsTools-CHCA-Employers-FINAL.pdf https://ontariocaregiver.ca/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/OCO-Work-and-Caregiving-Toolkit-FINAL-Interactive-3.pdf Connect With Us! Family Caregivers of BC Website https://www.familycaregiversbc.ca/ Telephone: (250) 384-0408 Toll-Free Line Within BC: 1-877-520-3267 Fax: (250) 361-2660 Email: info@familycaregiversbc.ca Facebook https://www.facebook.com/FamilyCaregiversBC/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/familycaregiversofbc/ LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/18122187 Twitter https://twitter.com/caringbc Thank you! BC Ministry of Health - Patients as Partners Initiative https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/health/about-bc-s-health-care-system/partners/patients Organized Sound Productions http://www.organizedsound.ca/

When we think about grief, we often think of it as something that happens following a death. However, grief can begin long before death arrives. The grieving process can start as soon as a caregiver is aware that death is a likelihood or once death is on the horizon. Many caregivers dealing with an impending death will experience overwhelm, anxiety and dread. As well, before the death of a care recipient, caregivers grieve the loss of the person’s abilities and independence, loss of their cognitive abilities, loss of future dreams, loss of stability and the loss of their identity and the caregivers. Anticipatory loss is not just about accepting the future death, but of the many losses already occurring as an illness progresses. Courtney Doherty is a registered clinical counsellor with the British Columbia Association of Clinical Counsellors. She currently works with Parkinson Society British Columbia, where she helped launch the counselling program in 2015. Today we talk about different forms and stages of loss and grief. And we talk about how a caregiver can plan for loss. Highlights: Resources: https://www.familycaregiversbc.ca/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/Anticipatory-Grief-Package-Information-for-Patients-and-Families-2021.pdf https://www.familycaregiversbc.ca/video/navigating-the-end-of-life-a-road-map-for-caregivers/ https://www.familycaregiversbc.ca/video/advance-care-planning-for-caregivers/ https://www.familycaregiversbc.ca/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/Grief_How-Are-You-Coping-With-Ongoing-Losses_2018_2020.pdf Links Mentioned in Episode: https://www.familycaregiversbc.ca/family-caregiver-support-groups/https://www.parkinson.bc.ca/resources-services/resources/ Connect With Us! Family Caregivers of BC Website https://www.familycaregiversbc.ca/ Telephone: (250) 384-0408 Toll-Free Line Within BC: 1-877-520-3267 Fax: (250) 361-2660 Email: info@familycaregiversbc.ca Facebook https://www.facebook.com/FamilyCaregiversBC/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/familycaregiversofbc/ LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/18122187 Twitter https://twitter.com/caringbc Thank you! BC Ministry of Health - Patients as Partners Initiative https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/health/about-bc-s-health-care-system/partners/patients Organized Sound Productions http://www.organizedsound.ca/

Have you ever said this to a struggling caregiver - “Let me know if there’s anything I can do to help?’ The offering has good intent, but many times people say it because they don’t know how to help, are uncomfortable, or want to be polite. And although 29 percent of caregivers in BC are in distress, you will still hear caregivers say: ‘I don’t need any help’ or ‘It’s okay, I’m fine’. Today we hear from Jim and how he supported his friend Art and Art’s wife Grace during Grace’s diagnoses and disease. Jim shares how in the process of supporting his friends, and at first it wasn’t with great success, he learned a lot about himself. We talk about the FCBC Circle of Care model and how it worked for Jim and his support group. Highlights: Resources: https://www.familycaregiversbc.ca/communication-skills/the-embrace-of-a-caring-circle/ https://www.familycaregiversbc.ca/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/Family-Dynamics-and-Caregiving.pdf https://www.familycaregiversbc.ca/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/Communication-Skills-for-Family-Caregivers.pdf https://www.familycaregiversbc.ca/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/Accepting-Help-is-Essential.pdf https://www.familycaregiversbc.ca/sharing-the-care/online-aids-for-caregivers/https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uNWGURkrO1Y https://ontariocaregiver.ca/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/OCO-starter-kit-April14.pdf https://www.familycaregiversbc.ca/video/medical-assistance-in-dying-maid/ Online Tools and Apps: CaringBridgehttps://www.caringbridge.org/Lotsa Helping Handshttp://lotsahelpinghands.com/MealTrainhttps://www.mealtrain.com/Tyze Connecting Carehttp://tyze.com/caring-for-someone/Ability411https://www.ability411.ca/ Links Mentioned in Episode: https://www.familycaregiversbc.ca/family-caregiver-support-groups/ Connect With Us! Family Caregivers of BC Website https://www.familycaregiversbc.ca/ Telephone: (250) 384-0408 Toll-Free Line Within BC: 1-877-520-3267 Fax: (250) 361-2660 Email: info@familycaregiversbc.ca Facebook https://www.facebook.com/FamilyCaregiversBC/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/familycaregiversofbc/ LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/18122187 Twitter https://twitter.com/caringbc Thank you! BC Ministry of Health - Patients as Partners Initiative https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/health/about-bc-s-health-care-system/partners/patients Organized Sound Productions http://www.organizedsound.ca/

Becoming a caregiver can creep up on you. Maybe it starts with dropping by your mom’s house to do her laundry or taking your dad to a doctor’s appointment or delivering groceries to your friend. Gradually, you find yourself doing more and more as the person you are caring for needs more support. You may not even realize it, you are making a commitment to care for someone else. Today we speak with Katrina who shares her experience of caregiving for her mother with Dementia. Katrina has strong values rooted in family and supporting family, which led her to care for her mother at home. Katrina’s episode is honest, raw and real. It is very inspiring to hear despite her caregiver challenges and lessons, she evolved and deepened her spiritual connection with self and with her mother. Highlights: Resources: https://www.familycaregiversbc.ca/caregiver-learning-center/read-resources/new-to-caregiving/ https://www.familycaregiversbc.ca/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/Challenges-and-Benefits-of-Caregiving.pdfhttps://www.familycaregiversbc.ca/category/new-to-caregiving/https://designyourpath.ca/ Connect With Us! Family Caregivers of BC Website https://www.familycaregiversbc.ca/ Telephone: (250) 384-0408 Toll-Free Line Within BC: 1-877-520-3267 Fax: (250) 361-2660 Email: info@familycaregiversbc.ca Facebook https://www.facebook.com/FamilyCaregiversBC/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/familycaregiversofbc/ LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/18122187 Twitter https://twitter.com/caringbc Thank you! BC Ministry of Health - Patients as Partners Initiative https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/health/about-bc-s-health-care-system/partners/patients Organized Sound Productions http://www.organizedsound.ca/

Grief is a human experience and it often feels messy or is accompanied by not knowing if you are "doing it right". Grief and loss can feel isolating. And many caregivers share different examples of grief, such as grieving the loss of your old life during caregiving and then also grieving the loss of the person you are caregiving for. Normal does not exist during grief and in today's episode, we chat with Tricia Wallace, a Clinical Counsellor with Parkinson Society BC about the topic of caregiver grief and loss and suggestions on how to work with these emotions. Highlights: Resources on Grief and Loss: Grief is a Universal Experience (Caregiver Grief Process and Life after Caregiving) https://www.familycaregiversbc.ca/emotions-of-caregiving/life-after-caregiving/Canadian Virtual Hospice on Grief and Loss - Explore the process of grief and get support from the privacy of your home. https://www.mygrief.ca/ Canadian Virtual Hospice, Grief and Loss Articles https://www.virtualhospice.ca/en_US/Main+Site+Navigation/Home/Topics/Topics/Emotional+Health/Grief+Work.aspx Grief and Loss Webinarwith Thomas Attig https://www.familycaregiversbc.ca/video/coach-caregiver-loss-grief/ The Grief Response Article, written by Janet McLean on Thomas Attig Work https://www.familycaregiversbc.ca/emotions-of-caregiving/the-grief-response/BC Bereavement Helplinehttps://www.bcbh.ca/ - Support Line: 1-877-779-2223 Links Mentioned in Episode: Family Caregivers of BC Caregiver Support GroupsParkinson Society BC Resources https://www.parkinson.bc.ca/resources-services/resources/ Connect With Us! Family Caregivers of BC Website https://www.familycaregiversbc.ca/ Telephone: (250) 384-0408 Toll-Free Line Within BC: 1-877-520-3267 Fax: (250) 361-2660 Email: info@familycaregiversbc.ca Facebook https://www.facebook.com/FamilyCaregiversBC/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/familycaregiversofbc/ LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/18122187 Twitter https://twitter.com/caringbc Thank you! BC Ministry of Health - Patients as Partners Initiative https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/health/about-bc-s-health-care-system/partners/patients Organized Sound Productions http://www.organizedsound.ca/

13 million Canadians or nearly half of the total population have provided care at some point in their lives. Yet caregiving may be a new term for many people. And often, unpaid caregivers do not identify with this title, as they feel it is part of their relationship with family or friends. In today’s episode, we speak with Pat, who acknowledges that she was initially unfamiliar with the term caregiver, but learned more about this important role as she supported her husband, also named Pat, through his journey with Parkinson’s Disease and dementia. Pat was engaged in a caregiver “learning process”, where she listened to her husband to better understand the effects of Parkinson's Disease in his daily life. Because of the value of their partnership, Pat’s relationship with her husband during his changing health conditions was sustained through humour and care. You will gain insight into her caregiving journey, awareness of the caregiving role, and the unfolding responsibilities; including end of life care and her current caregiving stages of grief, bereavement, and honouring her husband and life-partner. Highlights: Caregiving was a new term for Pat and then she was full-in caregiving mode.Supporting her husband with humour and care for their relationship was very apparent.Loss and grief - knowing he is still there with her by showing up in signs or thoughts.Giving back by supporting others in a caregiver support group. Resources on Grief and Loss: The Grief ResponseArticle, By Janet McLean.Webinars around Grief and Loss: https://www.familycaregiversbc.ca/video/coach-caregiver-loss-grief/and https://www.familycaregiversbc.ca/video/navigating-the-end-of-life-a-road-map-for-caregivers/ Links Mentioned in Episode: Janet Fast, “Caregiving for Older Adults with Disabilities: Present Costs, Future Challenges” Institute for Research on Public Policy Study (December 2015). Family Caregivers of BC Caregiver Support Groups Parkinson Society BC Resources Caregiver Support Line, Toll-Free in BC: 1-877-520-3267. Connect With Us! Family Caregivers of BC Website Visit us at our office: #6 – 3318 Oak Street Victoria, BC V8X 1R1 Hours are Monday through Friday, 8:30 am and 4:00 pm. Telephone: (250) 384-0408 Toll-Free Line Within BC: 1-877-520-3267 Fax: (250) 361-2660 Email: info@familycaregiversbc.ca Facebook Instragram LinkedIn Twitter Thank you! BC Ministry of Health - Patients as Partners Initiative Organized Sound Productions