Support for Caregivers of Older Adults with Chronic Conditions: A Canadian Perspective

Lili Liu, PhD, Associate Professor and Associate Chair, Department of Occupational Therapy, Faculty of Rehabilitation Medicine, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB.
Alison Barnfather, MSc, Co-Director, Social Support Research Program, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB.
Miriam Stewart, PhD, Scientific Director, Institute of Gender and Health, Canadian Institutes of Health Research; Professor, Faculties of Nursing, Medicine and Dentistry, and School of Public Health; Principal Investigator, Social Support Research Program. University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB.

In Canada, older adults are the most likely of all age groups to experience chronic health conditions. Most Canadians living with disabilities or chronic conditions and most older adults are supported by family members or close friends. Caregivers frequently describe the emotional, physical, and financial burdens associated with the caregiver role. Accessible support programs can improve health outcomes for family/friend caregivers of older adults with chronic conditions. Practitioners can use the strategies presented to help caregivers access timely and accessible support resources.
Key words: family caregivers, caregiver support, older adults, home care, chronic conditions.