Anyone can become a caregiver overnight — whether it’s an adult child supporting an aging parent while raising their own children (“sandwich caregivers”), a spouse caring for a partner after an accident or a young person helping a family member with chronic illness. The impact is far-reaching: caregivers often face emotional and physical strain and relationship challenges. Many must reduce work hours or leave jobs to provide care and their own well-being frequently takes a back seat. For 35 years, Family Caregivers of BC (FCBC) has helped navigate this life-changing journey.
“Caregivers are the backbone of our healthcare system, yet they often don’t recognize themselves in that role until they’re overwhelmed,” shares Barb MacLean, Executive Director of FCBC. With one in four Canadians serving as a caregiver and over one million British Columbians providing 80% of care in our communities, preventing caregiver burnout is a healthcare priority.
“Caregivers are the backbone of our healthcare system, yet they often don’t recognize themselves in that role until they’re overwhelmed,” shares Barb MacLean, Executive Director of FCBC
FCBC’s Caregiver Rx program makes connecting caregivers to support effortless. “We’ve created a simple online referral form for busy healthcare professionals,” explains Wendy Johnstone, Director of Programs and Innovation. “Through our referral system, providers can quickly identify caregivers and connect them to our team with minimal disruption to their workflow. Once referred, we reach out directly, so caregivers don’t have to navigate support alone.”
FCBC’s Caregiver Support Line offers immediate emotional support and resource navigation. Caregivers can also access one-on-one support, caregiver coaching, peer support groups and wellness programs such as therapeutic art classes and journaling.
“Many caregivers don’t seek help until they’re in crisis,” Johnstone notes. “Through Caregiver Rx, healthcare providers become vital links in early intervention, spotting signs of stress and making an immediate connection to support services.”
Built on a social prescribing model, Caregiver Rx recognizes that well-being extends beyond medical care. Caregivers report reduced stress, greater confidence and increased sense of support.
With funding from the BC Ministry of Health, the Canadian Centre for Caregiving Excellence and the Petro-Canada CareMakers Foundation, FCBC continues to expand support for family caregivers.
As National Caregiver Awareness Month approaches in May, healthcare professionals can:
- order a free Caregiver Rx package for quick referrals.
- learn how social prescribing can enhance patient care.
- encourage caregivers to seek help early.
- visit familycaregiversbc.ca for tools, training and resources.
Together, we can strengthen the backbone of our healthcare system — one caregiver at a time. Call our Caregiver Support Line, available Monday to Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. PST at 1-877-520-3267.
Photos: Getty Images