Caregivers – Essential allies in helping vulnerable seniors stay in their homes in minority rural Francophone areas

About the project

Caregivers play a vital role in enabling seniors to continue living in their homes and their community for the longest possible time; however, this does pose several challenges. Recognizing these challenges is essential to guarantee adequate support for caregivers and to improve their well-being along with that of the seniors and vulnerable persons they are assisting. The aim of the pilot project was to understand the requirements of caregivers in a Francophone rural area. Based on the needs that were identified, the Equipped Caregiver training program was developed and offered as part of the pilot project for caregivers in Tracadie and Bathurst. The training included five workshops with professionals, employees and an advisory committee to respond to the needs of caregivers. 18 caregivers were recruited (women: 100%, Francophone: 100%, average age: 68).

Conclusions and lessons learned

  • The assessment of the Enhanced Caregivers training indicated that it effectively helped caregivers in their role, improved their well-being and strengthened communication with the people in their care.
  • The findings of the interviews with caregivers highlighted the numerous challenges confronting them and revealed the lack of support and dedicated services in Francophone minority and rural communities.

Recommendations

  • Ensure that the needs and interests of caregivers in Francophone communities are given proper recognition and made known to governments and to decision-makers, particularly through active representation on committees and working groups.
  • Establish a provincial association for caregivers to close the gap between seniors and the work of caregivers that goes unnoticed, particularly through training and support groups.
  • Recognize and support the role of caregivers by providing government funded support to cover expenses associated with their role.
  • Develop more services that provide respite and psychosocial support to caregivers.

To learn more read the complete project findings (PDF 123 KB)