Over half of Canadians will provide care to a loved one at some point in their lives, and the reality of family caregiving can have unexpected tolls on everyday living.
The role of a caregiver can be both rewarding and also emotionally, psychologically, and physically taxing. Many people become caregivers because they are in a relationship with someone whom they care deeply for and want to see that person receive the comfort and care they require.
This National Caregiver Month we are shedding light on the impacts on the physical and mental health of those who care.
Family Caregivers in B.C.
According to the 2023 ‘Caring in Canada’ report, caregivers in British Columbia can be anyone in their adulthood from ages 18 to 64. Many of them are caring for parents or partners with challenges related to aging, serious medical conditions, or physical disabilities.
Out of these caregivers, fifty percent report feeling tired and forty five percent report being worried or anxious. When asked why, there were three main factors that contributed to these feelings of overwhelm:
- Access to support has been limited, half of respondents noted that they received no support services in the past year despite the fact that 83% of carers think respite is important, but have been unable to access it.
- On average, caregivers spend 5.1 hours a day on caregiving related duties over the course of an average of 4.5 years. This means an adult working a standard full-time 8 hour job is doing the equivalent of a 13.1 hour day.
- While juggling extra hours and the impact on mental health, caring can be costly. Only 10% of respondents reported receiving financial supports for their care recipients.
There is help
Despite these challenges, Canadians are choosing to support their loved ones because they care. Many caregivers simply identify themselves as daughters, husbands, children, or community members who are supporting a person they love. Access to resources and support are key to reaching everyone who provides care.
Family Caregivers of British Columbia
Canadian Centre for Caregiving Excellence
Carers Canada (A program of the CHCA)
New West Hospice Society
Statistics provided by:
The Canadian Centre for Caregiving Excellence’s report, Caring in Canada (2023)
What can be learned about caregivers in Canada from the analysis of families claiming the Canada caregiver credit? (2023)
