May is Family Caregiver Month, an opportunity to join millions across the country to recognize and celebrate family and friend caregivers. Their role is significant, giving over 80% of the care when we need it, yet they are often unrecognized, unsupported and underappreciated.
At Alberni Valley Hospice Society, we recognize the vital role that caregivers play in holistic palliative care, and strive to support the caregivers in our community. Please contact us for more information about our caregiver support services, including one on one support with our counselor or trained volunteers, and reading resources.
The National Caregiver Recognition Working Group is leading the Caregiver Aware Campaign, focusing on four key themes: Mental Health & Caregiving, Financial Impact of Caregiving, Work, School and Caregiving, and Caregivers as Essential Partners in Care.
Their research showed that these four areas were most important to caregivers, and that “what was hard got harder” since the pandemic hit. For example, over 50% of caregivers reported their mental health had worsened since the March 2020.
Now, more than ever, we need to help link caregivers to support, education and information that will bolster their well-being.
In honour of Family Caregiver Month, Family Caregivers of British Columbia has a variety of support groups and sessions planned for May that may be of interest:
- May 7: Victoria Virtual Caregiver Group
- May 8: Caregivers Connect: BC’s Virtual Support Group
- May 13: Facebook Live – Creating a Caregiver Support Plan
- May 13: BC Men’s Virtual Support Group
- May 14: Podcast Listening Party
- May 22: Caregivers Connect: BC’s Virtual Support Group
- May 27: Facebook Live – Creating a Caregiver Support Plan & Using our Resources
- May 27: Caregivers Connect: Celebration
- May 29: My Wishes My Care: Advance Care Planning Information Sessions
To receive May updates from Family Caregivers of BC, sign up for their E-news here: https://www.familycaregiversbc.ca/caregiver-connection/