Caregiver Program

"There are only four kinds of people in the world: Those who have been caregivers, those who currently are caregivers, those who will be caregivers, and those who will need caregivers".
- Rosalynn Carter

Hospice Georgina recognizes the important responsibility it is to be a caregiver for someone who has a life-threatening illness. This can a 24 hour a day undertaking from physical care to personal care, emotional and social support, meal planning and transportation. Perhaps you are a caregiver who is simply doing whatever needs to be done to assist someone who is ill or frail.

Hospice Georgina can provide resources to you. Our Client Care Coordinator can meet privately with you to help you sort out your feelings and develop a strategy for dealing with the changes that caregiving brings. The hospice office has resources, books and information about topics related to caregiving that you may borrow. We can make referrals to caregiver support groups such as those offered by CHATS.

Our volunteers can provide home visits so that you can have a break on a regular basis. Volunteers also provide a listening ear to help you find the strength to cope. We offer a weekly Drop-In Program which allows you two hours of uninterrupted time for yourself to relax or recharge as your loved one enjoys a morning away from home.

Self Care is Important

Being a caregiver can be exhausting - both physically and emotionally. Many caregivers find it much easier to focus on their loved one's needs, and neglect their own. Caregivers often experience the following health concerns: exhaustion, poor eating , failure to exercise, postponing or missing medical appointments, anxiety, stress, isolation, depression, and frustration.

If you are a caregiver, it is essential to find the time and resources to take care of your own health. This is easier said than done, but taking care of yourself first is the only way you can continue to effectively care for your loved one. Here are some tips you may find helpful:

• Identify sources of stress
• Get the food and rest you need
• Take time for yourself
• Let others take part in the work of caregiving
• Seek and accept support for yourself
• Watch out for destructive ways of coping (e.g. alcohol, drugs)