Caregivers Network for East Kootenay Seniors
It has been over 20 years since a Support Group for Caregivers was established in Cranbrook by Mental Health, Continuing Care and Home Support Services.
In 2003, thanks to the foresight of Interior Health, we were given a grant to set up an East Kootenay wide network with support groups in the six largest communities and a toll free number for telephone support and information for the whole area. A program manager oversees and mentors the community facilitators.
In 2009, we became the Caregivers Network for East Kootenay Seniors Society. The board of the society meets four times per year in Cranbrook. Board members are current or former caregivers, retired health professionals and representatives from local senior organizations.
Our goals are
- to help the caregivers of seniors who live in the East Kootenay by giving them information and support
- to improve caregivers' awareness of our support groups and phone support service
Here are examples of topics dealt with in support group meetings:
- Finding ways to reduce stress, the importance of self care and utilizing respite services
- Practical solutions to deal with dementia and resulting behaviours of paranoia, repetition, aggression towards caregiver
- Information and resources about Involuntary Separation, Disability Tax Credits, Canada Pension Plan, Old Age Security, Power of Attorney, SAFER Grant, etc
- Dealing with extended family who don't understand the changes
- Difficulty accessing services in rural areas
- Information on specific diseases
- How losses and changes in lifestyle affect caregivers
We can help!