Caregivers Out Loud

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.pdf Tips For Lond Distance Caregivers - https://www.familycaregiversbc.ca/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/Tips-for-Long-Distance-Caregivers.pdf Closing the Gap - https://www.familycaregiversbc.ca/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/Closing-the-Gap.pdf Caring 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 pm Cantonese and Mandarin: 1-833-674-5007 Monday to Friday 9 am to 4 pm Punjabi: 1-833-674-5003 Monday to Friday 9 am to 4 pm Alzheimer's Society of BC https://alzheimer.ca/bc/ Creativity as a Form of Self Care episode https://www.familycaregiversbc.ca/podcast/episode-14-creativity-as-a-form-of-self-care Family 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 Foundation https://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/S1462388919301152 Article 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 Study on the connection between heart, healing, and public health with links to psychologist and art therapist Dr. Cathy Malchiodi 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 from Home to Facility Flipbook FCBC Resource  https://www.familycaregiversbc.ca/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/Moving-from-Home-to-Facility-Podcast-Resource-1.pdf For 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-living Finding an Assisted Living Residence https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/health/assisted-living-in-bc/finding-an-assisted-living-residence Don'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.pdf How to Check Care Facility Records https://www.healthspace.ca/clients/viha/viha_website.nsf/CCFL-Main?OpenView Who 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 from Home to Facility Flipbook FCBC Resource https://www.familycaregiversbc.ca/wp-content/uploads/2021/11/Moving-from-Home-to-Facility-Podcast-Resource-1.pdf For 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-living Finding an Assisted Living Residence https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/health/assisted-living-in-bc/finding-an-assisted-living-residence Don'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.pdf How to Check Care Facility Records https://www.healthspace.ca/clients/viha/viha_website.nsf/CCFL-Main?OpenView Who 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.pdf Taking 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.pdf Learn 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 Canada https://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: Vanier Institute of the Family Report, 2017, https://vanierinstitute.ca/download/10536/ Highlights: What it means to be an employed caregiver Being part of the sandwich generation - caring for children and caring for ageing parents Being a caregiver while maintaining a full-time job Challenges of caregiving within the workplace Key things that support work and caregiving Resources: First Link Dementia Helpline https://alzheimer.ca/bc/en/help-support/find-support-bc/first-link-dementia-helpline Supporting a Family Caregiver (a friend, colleague and/or employee) in the Workplace Webinar https://www.familycaregiversbc.ca/video/supporting-a-family-caregiver-a-friendcolleague-and-or-employee-in-the-workplace/ Work and Care Webinar https://www.familycaregiversbc.ca/video/work-care-a-balancing-act/ Supporting Employed Caregivers Booklet https://www.familycaregiversbc.ca/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/Support-an-Employed-Caregiver.pdf Strategies to Make the Workplace more Caregiver Friendly Tips and Tools for Employees (Canadian Hospice Palliative Care Organization) https://www.familycaregiversbc.ca/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/Strategies-to-Make-the-Workplace-More-Caregiver-Friendly.pdf Tips and Tools for Employers (Canadian Hospice Palliative Care Organization) http://hpcintegration.ca/media/60791/TWF%20TipsTools-CHCA-Employers-FINAL.pdf Work and Caregiving: A Balancing Act (Ontario Caregivers Association) 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: Ambiguous Loss and Anticipatory loss. Limbo or frozen grief process. The big role of a caregiver with the preparation of loss (logistics), identity change, and learning a new life (changes of emotions). Self-awareness of feeling the feelings and making them manageable. Resources: Anticipatory Grief Package: Information for Patients and Families https://www.familycaregiversbc.ca/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/Anticipatory-Grief-Package-Information-for-Patients-and-Families-2021.pdf Navigating the End of Life: A Road Map for Caregivers Webinar https://www.familycaregiversbc.ca/video/navigating-the-end-of-life-a-road-map-for-caregivers/ Advance Care Planning Webinar https://www.familycaregiversbc.ca/video/advance-care-planning-for-caregivers/ How are you Coping with Ongoing Losses? Article https://www.familycaregiversbc.ca/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/Grief_How-Are-You-Coping-With-Ongoing-Losses_2018_2020.pdf Links Mentioned in Episode: Family Caregivers of BC Caregiver Support Groups https://www.familycaregiversbc.ca/family-caregiver-support-groups/ Parkinson Society BC Resources https://www.parkinson.bc.ca/resources-services/resources/ Caregiver Support Line, Toll-Free in BC: 1-877-520-3267. 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: Watching a friend with caregiving How to support his caregiver friend and his wife who was ill and then dying Circle of Care concept and development with the support of Family Caregivers of British Columbia Strategies and tools to support Vulnerability, growth, and learning from a man's point of view The need to talk with other men and find his voice in communication and understanding Resources: The Embrace of a Caring Circle Article https://www.familycaregiversbc.ca/communication-skills/the-embrace-of-a-caring-circle/ Family Dynamics and Caregiving Article https://www.familycaregiversbc.ca/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/Family-Dynamics-and-Caregiving.pdf Communication Tips for Caregivers Article https://www.familycaregiversbc.ca/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/Communication-Skills-for-Family-Caregivers.pdf Accepting Help is Essential for Caregivers Article https://www.familycaregiversbc.ca/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/Accepting-Help-is-Essential.pdf Online Supports for Family Caregivers Article https://www.familycaregiversbc.ca/sharing-the-care/online-aids-for-caregivers/ Creating a Gold Medal Support Network Webinar https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uNWGURkrO1Y Build Your Support Team (by Ontario Caregiver Organization) https://ontariocaregiver.ca/wp-content/uploads/2020/04/OCO-starter-kit-April14.pdf Medical Assistance in Dying, MAID Webinar https://www.familycaregiversbc.ca/video/medical-assistance-in-dying-maid/ Online Tools and Apps: CaringBridge helps you create a free personal website to quickly share updates about your care recipient’s health journey. Share news and updates with everyone at the same time, activate your community and coordinate help, and receive emotional strength and support. https://www.caringbridge.org/ Lotsa Helping Hands features a free Help Calendar where you can post requests for support. Members of your community can quickly find ways to help, and Lotsa will send reminders and help coordinate logistics automatically so nothing falls through the cracks. Share how things are going, update requests, and receive support and feedback. http://lotsahelpinghands.com/ MealTrain is a free interactive online meal calendar with customized calendar dates, times and meal preferences. Invitations can be sent via email and Facebook including reminder emails, online journal updates and an optional donation fund add-on. https://www.mealtrain.com/ Tyze Connecting Care is an online tool that brings people together around someone receiving care.If you’re helping to care for someone Tyze is a simple way to keep everyone informed and get organized. Send updates to everyone at once from anywhere, keep track of everything in one place, access appointments, store documents and let family and friends know how to help. There may be a cost involved depending on options selected. http://tyze.com/caring-for-someone/ Ability411, they "answer questions and provide practical information about technologies, tools and equipment that increase independence and well-being for BC seniors, and support their families and care teams." https://www.ability411.ca/ Links Mentioned in Episode: Family Caregivers of BC Caregiver Support Groups https://www.familycaregiversbc.ca/family-caregiver-support-groups/ Caregiver Support Line, Toll-Free in BC: 1-877-520-3267. 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: Introspection during caregiving. Learning from the challenging and suffering moments of life. Her self-reflection and insight have helped deepen her connection with her mother and also advocate for her mother in the health system. Resources: New to Caregiving Flipbook- https://www.familycaregiversbc.ca/caregiver-learning-center/read-resources/new-to-caregiving/ Challenges and Benefits of Caregiving: https://www.familycaregiversbc.ca/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/Challenges-and-Benefits-of-Caregiving.pdf New to Caregiving: Finding the Right Information - https://www.familycaregiversbc.ca/category/new-to-caregiving/ Navigating the HealthCare System Resource -http://www.familycaregiversbc.ca/wp-content/uploads/2016/09/Tips-for-Navigating-the-Healthcare-System.pdf Caregiver Support Line, Toll-Free in BC: 1-877-520-3267. Learn more about Katrina at 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: Grief and the grief process. Mourning rituals and practices. Grieving during caregiving (loss of 'old life') and also loss of the person you are caregiving for. There is no right or wrong way to grieve. Normal does not exist during grief. End of life planning. 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 Helpline https://www.bcbh.ca/ - Support Line: 1-877-779-2223 Links Mentioned in Episode: Family Caregivers of BC Caregiver Support Groups https://www.familycaregiversbc.ca/family-caregiver-support-groups/ Parkinson Society BC Resources https://www.parkinson.bc.ca/resources-services/resources/ Caregiver Support Line, Toll-Free in BC: 1-877-520-3267. 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 Response Article, 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

No matter where caregivers live, you have access to support. Welcome to “Caregivers Out Loud”, a podcast powered by Family Caregivers of British Columbia. This season's podcast is hosted by Bill Israel who will be leading heartfelt, connective conversations with caregivers. By sharing stories of caregivers and insight from community experts, we bring you perspective and connection, and ensure that you have support and balance from inspired caregivers, who are caregiving out loud. Listen wherever you go by subscribing and listening to the podcast for free on your favourite podcast listening app or wherever you listen to audio. You can also listen, read through notes from each episode, and find additional caregiving resources on our website at https://www.familycaregiversbc.ca/podcast/. For direct support, call our Caregiver Support Line Toll-Free in BC at 1-877-520-3267, Monday to Friday, 8:30 am to 7:00 pm Pacific time.

When was the last time you felt truly rested? For caregivers, making time for self-care can feel almost impossible with all the other demands on your time. And yet, it is an essential skill to learn in your role as a caregiver. In our final episode of the season, we look to why self-care is a fundamental part of being a caregiver. As a caregiver, you are often willing to make sacrifices and feel a sense of commitment. However, without self-care, how can you sustain caring for your family or friend and not run the risk of burning out? Highlights 2:38 How to find balance and have boundaries to fit your life. The reality of the burden of caregiving impacting other relationships. Why it’s a myth that enough self care will offset how much energy caregiving takes. 5:37 The importance of filling up a caregiver’s own gas tank. Having the ability to see and hear yourself and show yourself some compassion. How 92% of caregivers find caregiving rewarding, but that there are high levels of distress. 12:35 The difference between running a marathon and a sprint in caregiving. The importance of being together versus the tasks of doing things. How deciding that your own well being is important to accept self care. Why laughter creates resilient caregivers. 18:13 Learn about the elements of caregiving. How knowing about anticipatory grief is a proactive step in caregiving. The difficulty of juggling what to do now versus letting go of tasks. How care giving is one of the biggest social phenomenons in our society. Caregiver needs are not the same, but there are common elements. Quotes “Self care at its basis is being able to see and hear yourself and show yourself some compassion for how difficult it is.” - Jodie “Your self care can be absolutely on point and you can still sometimes feel overwhelmed. That's just part of caregiving sometimes.” - Jodie “You don't ever imagine that it's going to be like this. And yet, it can get so much better. It's accepting what's there every day and finding ease in it.” - Deanna “If I were to look back and think about caregiving, it would be to really understand the feelings and emotions that you are going to go through no matter what, at different times than other people, and to learn about them. That's one tremendous gift that you could give yourself as a caregiver.” - Barb “The tasks will always be there but the person won't.” - Barb “It can save your life. It can be your lifeline. It can be that piece that just keeps you able to do this important life work for the person or people that need the care.” - Deanna on asking caregivers to reach out to get support Links Mentioned In the Episode Seniors Advocate of BC Report Episode 2 with Barb Maclean 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

In a healthy relationship, the needs of both people are important - it’s a two-way street. Good communication is the key to making sure everyone’s needs are met. Whether it is between you and a spouse, or with your friends, successful relationships are all about communication. In today’s episode, we share how for caregivers, relationships with others can be more complex than usual. It can be hard to find ways to speak up for your own needs. If you are the primary caregiver, recognizing your own need for support might be difficult - particularly if the care receiver is uncomfortable with the idea - but still, you need to make these choices for yourself. Highlights Relationships are complex, so resentment, sadness, and guilt can still exist in any happy relationship; which is all very normal when you are a caregiver. It’s not uncommon with men to be uncomfortable with diagnosis and want to keep that a secret. The whole caregiving relationship depends on the caregiver being well. There is joy in caregiving, but there’s also the sadness. Caregivers focus a lot on the practical aspects, but what’s the hardest part is doing the emotional work or anticipatory grief. Through talking about the caregiver’s feelings and needs as well as the care recipient, helps the recipient see the importance of letting people help. 8:15 Strategies for caring for yourself as a caregiver. Caregivers can still be responsible for their own experience while balancing the need for others. Choosing freely to be a friend caregiver. The learning curve of being a caregiver is like being in medical school. 11:59 How a friendship can change when a friend becomes a caregiver. Caregivers don’t know what to do and how to ask for help because it’s all so new. Community shows that we can do things better together than individually and alone. Real challenge is finding out what the caregiver friend needs and then matching what friends are willing to do and give. 21:04 How the trust relationship by telling the truth restores the sense of equity or equality before being a caregiver. 22:57 Lots of Helping Hands to have an organized approach to caregiving by using an online care calendar. Opening up a conversation with anybody can be helpful because people need to give as much as they need to receive. Quotes “Relationships are complex, so resentment, sadness, and guilt can still exist in any happy relationship; which is all very normal when you are a caregiver. It takes work to overcome the negatives by seeking help, communicating with your loved one, and having the self-awareness to put it all into perspective.” - Jodie “I have to take care of myself. Because if I'm not taking care of myself, who's going to take care of you?” - Nancy to her husband Ted “You are free to ask for anything. But you must also ask for everything that you need. And we agree to only give what we're capable of giving.” - Jim’s principle to share the truth “The agreement is you tell us the truth about what you need. We will tell you the truth about what we can deliver. Once we got to that point, everybody relaxed, and we got back into the normal rapport because we have a model that we can talk to.” - Jim “I felt a little uncomfortable in intervening in what could have been seen as a family affair, a family issue. But I overcame that because I realized the benefit of us all working together, rather than working independently and duplicating some efforts and leaving gaps and others.” - Jim Links Mentioned In the Episode Lotsa Helping Hands - online care calendar 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 Instagram LinkedIn Twitter Thank you! BC Ministry of Health - Patients as Partners Initiative Organized Sound Productions

Caregiving brings all sorts of challenges that call forth growth, and communication can be one of them. In today’s episode, we hear about why good communication with family members and healthcare providers is so important, and often difficult for caregivers. In your role as caregiver, you have to speak up for the needs of the care receiver as well as your own. You need to think about the future and what is in everyone’s best interests. This can be especially tough within families. Highlights How bringing the conversation to families prior to when the caregiving starts, can be a potential growth experience for the caregiver. 2:27 The impacts of being a surrogate parent to a younger sibling when a child becomes a caregiver. 4:24 Establishing a relationship with at least one health care provider who is able to see the evolution of stress and burnout in the caregiver. Why it’s important for the health care provider to not only deal with the patient’s medical issues, but also the caregiver’s feelings. It's up to the caregiver to allow themselves to be seen in that vulnerability. 6:15 How caregivers frame the need for more home care support and what that really means. Early conversations with health care providers can build continuity and provide the support needed. How the model of care is changing in North America to provide support for caregivers. The important role that caregivers play in changing the healthcare system. 12:46 Strategies for caregivers to be more effective at communicating to health care providers. Navigating the health system tops the list neck and neck with family conflict. Advocacy for caregivers and health system collaboration to change how the health system is working to improve it. How impactful it can be if caregivers are able to voice their own feelings and needs as a caregiver. Celebrating caregivers with Caregiver Month. Quotes “You have to be able to expose your own vulnerability so at least the healthcare provider can pick up on it. But you also need to be able to connect that to the provision of health care that the patient is no longer being able to receive from this exhausted caregiver.” - Dave “The family friend caregivers, who the care recipient says it is, that experience is different and distinct from the patient voice. They're not one in the same. Our work is to bring forward that voice that is unique. A family caregiver role is unique. So if you're discussing anything about that role, it's got to be that voice.” - Barb “The steep learning curve that comes with being a caregiver can really take you by surprise. Trying to get the answers and care you are looking for and figuring out how to communicate with medical staff - it’s like learning a foreign language.” - Jodie  Links Mentioned In the Episode Caregiver Month 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, 8:30am and 4:00pm. 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

Thank you for joining us for our inaugural episode! Over this first season, we’ll focus on caregiver wellbeing. How getting the support you need is vital. Why good communication with family members and medical professionals can be difficult, but rewarding. We’ll share some essential tips on how to look after yourself and you’ll hear stories from caregivers who have spent a great deal of time and energy living these experiences. These inspiring people will bring balance to caregiving along with the other aspects of your life. Today, we take a look at how few of us can “go it alone” as caregivers. Having relationships with friends or organizations can boost your emotional strength for the marathon of caregiving. We’ll examine different sources of support available to caregivers, how to overcome challenges that prevent you from reaching out for support, and what it is like to really acknowledge your role as a caregiver. You’ll hear from caregivers who struggled with overwhelm before reaching out to access different kinds of support and the difference it made to their lives. Highlights 2:05 What is a caregiver? Only 42% of caregivers self identify as a caregiver. 3:55 The emotional work of caregiving. 5:38 The rewards or benefits for caregiving. Being an advocate - speaking on the care receiver’s behalf, not for them. Caregivers need to access support to be a good advocate. How to cope with caring for multiple people by sharing information with others. Acknowledging that you need help and educate yourself to be a better caregiver. Most people who come into the caregiving role are not trained for it. 15:52 How support services can normalize what it is to be a caregiver. 16:35 The benefits of a support group for caregivers. Connect with others as if you’re part of a neighbourhood. 19:00 How attending a support group meeting can leave you feeling with less weight on your shoulders. 20:44 How to ask for help and how to accept support. Know the importance of yourself; the healthier you are, mentally and physically, the better you will be able to care for someone else. Quotes “The more you open yourself up to communication with support groups, to support network, the more you think yes, you know, I guess you are right, I am a caregiver.” - Marlene “I acknowledged, I need help. It's also very difficult for a caregiver to take that first step, thinking that it's for themselves because I don't need any help. But if we can share with them that the more you learn, the more information you have, the better you're going to be as a caregiver.” - Marlene “Caregiving; it's not something they were trained for. It's something that's just come their way or they felt compelled to become a caregiver.” - Ben “It takes caregivers to participate in community and it also takes people to offer that community to the caregivers. If everyone's doing their piece, then caregivers can feel held by community.” - Jodie Links Mentioned In the Episode The Change Foundation. For a brief summary, see Spotlight on Ontario’s Caregivers. Spotlight on Ontario's Caregivers report – November 2018; page 15. 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, 8:30am and 4:00pm. 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

Welcome to “Caregivers Out Loud”, powered by Family Caregivers of British Columbia, hosted by Jodie McDonald. We’ll explore how the role of a caregiver can be rewarding, but also that it’s emotionally, psychologically, and physically taxing. Through sharing these stories, we’ll bring you perspective, connection, and ensuring that you have support and balance by inspiring caregivers, out loud. Subscribe now on your favourite podcast listening app to be notified when the first episode will be available in April 2020.