Are you an unpaid caregiver to an elderly parent or loved one? You’re not alone. In a recently released 2023 survey, Statistics Canada reported that in 2018, over one-quarter of Canadians aged 15+ were caregivers, providing 5.7 billion hours of unpaid care. And that number is growing.

While romance gets all the hearts and flowers on Valentine’s Day, why not honour the love, affection, and special bond you have with the senior loved ones in your life? Here are five ways to celebrate, some designed for in-person gatherings and others for virtual meet-ups.

As we get closer to the holiday season, some of us may be feeling concerned about how jolly our time with extended family might be if we engage in certain conversations. For example, the pandemic and vaccination status has become a contentious topic that has, in many cases, led to family drama and upset. Family members may have different viewpoints about how safe it is to get together, whether everyone needs to be fully vaccinated, or whether masks may even be necessary in some situations.

Can the right clothing help your senior loved one with mobility issues feel more confident, independent, and stay physically and socially active?

When we think of someone caring for an older adult, we may assume it is an adult child supporting an aging parent. However, a quarter of Canadians over the age of 65 are also caregivers themselves.

Many of us will be spending Thanksgiving with our parents and siblings—either in person or virtually due to COVID-19.

Supporting and connecting meaningfully with someone living with dementia can make a vital positive difference and help overcome isolation in normal circumstances and in pandemic situations.

As the COVID-19 situation continues to unfold, some people have wondered if they should take their parent out of a retirement or long term care residence until the stay-at-home orders are lifted.

Today, we are more open about talking about our caregiving experiences, especially as the topic continues to receive more press

Joan and Eddie MacMaster have three adult children: Michael, Joanne, and Gail. Michael lives about 15 minutes away from his parents and his sisters live in other provinces. Although still quite healthy, Joan and Eddie’s needs are increasing as they age. Michael stops in almost every day to check on them and provide what help he can.

We all want to make our own choices, maintain control over our life, and have independence as we age.

Caring for a parent could have a significant impact on your psychological and physical health. About 60% of Canadians caring for an aging parent report multiple signs of distress, and over 1 in 5 say their overall health suffered. To stay healthy, balance caregiving responsibilities with self-care. Eat healthy meals regularly, exercise to boost energy and improve sleep, and ask for help so you can do things you enjoy.