Caregiver Support During The COVID-19 Pandemic
Caregivers are more important than ever during the COVID-19 pandemic. The COVID-19 Community South West Region Pandemic Planning Table recognizes the increased strain and challenges of caregiving during this time. Below, you will find a one-stop shop of information and resources to support caregivers in Grey Bruce, Huron Perth, London Middlesex, Oxford and Elgin.
Information and Resources for Caregivers
Staying Safe at Home
Practical Tips on Providing Care
During the pandemic, many programs that caregivers rely on for respite and/or
assistance with personal care (e.g. moving/transferring, toileting/incontinence
care, eating/drinking, hygiene, oral care, dressing, grooming, etc.) have had to
change their services. This may leave the caregiver to provide care that they may
not normally do on a regular basis. There are information and resources
available to support caregivers in taking on these added activities.
Mental Health
Especially during this time of social/physical distancing, it is more important than ever for caregivers to remain as connected as possible and maintain good physical and mental health.
Grocery and Meal Delivery, Food Banks and Food Safety
Resources and information for caregivers is available to help with safely getting and preparing food during the pandemic.
How to Explain Social/Physical Distancing
Financial Concerns
Resources and information for caregivers is available to help with safely getting and preparing food during the pandemic.
Protecting Yourself and the Person You Are Caring For
Practical Tips for Providing Care
Respite and Activity Ideas
Many programs that caregivers rely on for respite have had to change their services, leaving caregivers without much needed breaks. There are information and resources available to support caregivers during this time.
Abuse in the Home
The pandemic is a stressful time, which may affect people’s ability to cope. Abuse can be emotional, physical, sexual, financial and include neglect. Information and resources are available to help you through these difficult times.
Caregiving From a Social/Physical Distance
Long Term Care, Retirement Home or Private Residence
Considering Moving a Resident from Long Term Care or Retirement Home
The decision to move a resident from Long Term Care or Retirement Home may be considered by some during COVID-19. There are important considerations to think about in order to make a decision on what to do.
When the Person You are Caring for Gets Ill and/or Needs to Self-Isolate
When the Caregiver Gets Ill and/or Needs to Self-Isolate
Caregivers are concerned what is going to happen to the person they are caring for if they get ill during the pandemic. Planning ahead and knowing what information and services are available is critical.
If you need more information or support
Contact your local Community Support Services through central intake:
-
Elgin 1-888-866-7527
-
Grey Bruce 1-833-659-5491
-
Huron Perth 1-844-482-7800
-
London-Middlesex 519-673-6617
-
Oxford 1-888-866-7518
The Ontario Caregiver Organization
-
24/7 Helpline: 1-833-416-2273
Questions or Comments?
Let us know if you have suggestions for information or resources that would be helpful.
Please contact: Cheryl.McDonald@sjhc.london.on.ca