elder care By Stephanie Piovesan, Family Services Ottawa, EAP Carleton University - March 20, 2012

“Eldercare is the next serious issue facing Canadian families. The lack of Eldercare facilities and the aging population means many employees will be forced to take care of their parents. This will result in higher stress, higher levels of depression and absenteeism.” -Linda Duxbury, Carleton University Professor and co-author of Work-Life Survey

It is estimated that 80% - 90 % of caregivers for seniors are family members. Majority of caregivers are spouses or adult children. One third are friends, extended family or neighbours. More than 1 in 5 caregivers provide care to seniors living in care facilities. By 2065: 1 in 4 Canadians will be 65 and over. 1 in 10 will be over 80. Source: CRNCC In Focus backgrounder

What you need to know … Caregiving Defined Losses & Changes for the Senior Issues and Challenges for the Caregiver Strategies for the Caregiver Resources

Definitions: Caregiver Informal Caregiver Sandwhich Generation

“The advantage age has over youth is that youth knows nothing about being old, whereas the old know all about being young.” (Bits & Pieces)

Losses & Changes for the Senior Ability to make Decisions Loss of Independence & autonomy, Loss of Self Esteem/Confidence Increased Sense of Vulnerability Increased Stress Levels Decreased Financial Resources Grief & Mourning Social Isolation/ risk of social isolation Difficult & Unusual Behaviours

Issues and Challenges for the Caregiver

Anger Fear Embarrassment Grief LOSS Guilt “Placement Panic” Impatience Loneliness Overwhelmed The Emotions of Caregiving

Warning Signs of Caregiver Fatigue/Stress Signs to look for: Feelings of helplessness, anger, anxiety, irritability & impatience Indecisiveness & inability to problem solve Difficulty sleeping Exhaustion & excessive tiredness Physical complaints –frequent headaches, stomach aches; long lasting colds Difficulty asking for help Loss of social connections – not in touch with friends; no longer participating in favorite hobbies & activities Asking for and allowing help before you become weighed down helps to prevent caregiver fatigue.

Strategies for the Caregiver

Every situation and relationship is different. There is no magic wand to make a tough situation better. STRATEGIES : Meet the Practical Needs Health, Medical; Safety; Nutrition etc. Become an Expert educate yourself Maximize visits to medical and other professionals Learn proper care techniques – if you don’t know how – ASK Find Help Tap into the many resources available Involve others in the caregiving Ask for HELP.

Avoid Role Reversal or Parenting your Parent Listen Make constructive suggestions Remain focused on the matter of care Remember the person you are caring for is an adult (Powers of Attorney; Capacity; Risk taking behaviours) Take Care Of yourself & your other relationships Determine what you can and can’t do - Say NO Your Actions – the things you have control over Take time for the things you enjoy – use respite; day care services Join a support group Plan ahead & for your own aging Find Your “Silver Lining” highlight the positives in the situation or in the relationship with your parent

Community Resources

“Old age is not so bad when you consider the alternatives.” - Maurice Chevalier