Family caregivers are often the unsung heroes that shoulder a heavy burden looking after the physical and emotional needs of elderly adults, loved-ones with disabilities, or special needs children. During recent months of isolation due to the COVID-19 pandemic, these informal caregivers are under even more stress, often sandwiched between family responsibilities and work. The Canadian Abilities Foundation wants to shine a light on these family caregivers as well as professional caregivers by accepting nominations for the 2020 national Canada Cares Caregiver of the Year award.
According to a recent CAF press release, 80 percent of caregivers provide some type of care every day of the week and 41 percent use their own funds to help care for loved ones. The burden of caregiving, without respite, can often cause family caregivers to neglect their own health and well being, sometimes leading to caregiver burnout. With a rapidly aging population, the role of family caregiver is expected to expand over the next 20 to 30 years as the Baby Boomer generation reaches old age.
One family caregiver and one professional caregiver across each of Canada’s five regions will be chosen to receive the award and one nominee will be gifted with $10,000 based on their commitment to care, level of need, and creativity in plans to use the money. Nominations will be accepted through September 25; follow this link to nominate an exceptional caregiver.
The Canadian Abilities Foundation, founded in 1986, strives to make Canada a more accessible country with greater inclusivity and accessibility for people of all ages and abilities. The foundation publishes several magazines for caregivers and people with disabilities and well as partnering with Easter Seals and corporations including Cineplex Entertainment, providing free or discounted admission to movie theaters across Canada.
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