Where to start?
Am I a caregiver?
Many people are unaware that they are caregivers, mainly because they don’t live with the person they are helping or because the support they provide is only occasional. However, according to the Quebec government’s definition, an informal caregiver is anyone who, on a regular or occasional basis, provides significant support to someone in their immediate circle who has a temporary or permanent disability, and with whom they share an emotional bond, whether familial or not.
Even with the best intentions in the world, being a caregiver means embarking on a journey fraught with challenges and worries. Learning to set boundaries is often difficult because of the feelings of guilt that can arise. However, this step is essential to avoid burnout.
Some stats on informal caregivers
35 %
Percentage of informal caregivers who don’t recognize themselves as such.
46 %
Percentage of informal caregivers who provide care to a loved one for five or more hours per day.
1/3
Proportion of adult Quebecers who are informal caregivers.
Source : Enquête statistique sur la proche aidance au Québec 2022, by L’Appui pour les proches aidants
Taking care of yourself
Plan ahead
Schedule some time to prepare the week’s schedule, complete hospital paperwork, draw up a to-do list, and so on.
Use online and delivery services
Schedule grocery and medication deliveries, as well as medical appointments, online.
Talk to other caregivers and take advantage of respite services
Use available respite services to give yourself a break, and consider joining a caregiver support group.
Go easy on yourself
Your role is difficult and demanding. It’s natural to experience a range of emotions and feel overwhelmed sometimes. Remember that what you’re doing is incredibly valuable, and treat yourself with the same kindness and understanding that you would a friend who is a caregiver.
