Caregiver Resources
Need support as a caregiver?
Whether you’re new to caregiving or have been supporting a loved one for years, help is available. If you are caring for someone and are looking for supports please utilize the information below to connect with available resources.
Ontario Caregiver Organization
The Ontario Caregiver Organization (OCO) is funded by the Ministry of Health and exists to improve the lives of Ontario’s 4 million caregivers.
The OCO works collaboratively with caregivers, healthcare providers and other organizations to improve the caregiving experience. How?
- By finding ways to make existing services more broadly available
- By ensuring all caregivers, regardless of age, disease, diagnosis, or location within the province can access support
- By identifying gaps, and working with partners to find new ways to fill them
Ontario Caregiver Helpline
The Ontario Caregiver Helpline is a one-stop resource for information about the programs and resources that can support you in your caregiving role.
The SCALE (Supporting Caregiver Awareness, Learning and Empowerment) Program can provide you with skills you need to find a balance between your caregiving responsibilities and personal needs.
Offered twice a year, the SCALE Program offers:
- 8-weekly psychoeducational webinars (LIVE or RECORDED) that acknowledge and unpack difficult caregiving emotions.
- Workbooks that offer strategies, tools, and resources to help you cope with the emotional aspects of caregiving
- Free online group or individual counselling for short term support
- Please note: Counselling sessions are available for Ontario residents only.
Other Caregiver Resources
Use the links below to connect with caregiver resources
- Erie St. Clair Healthline – Listing of Caregiver Support Services in Windsor-Essex
- Erie St. Clair Healthline – Respite Care Services
- CaregiverExchange – Listing of caregiver support resources in our region
- Government of Ontario – Program and Services for Families and Caregivers
- Government of Canada – Employment Insurance (EI) Caregiving Benefits
- Canadian Centre For Caregiving Excellence
- CHATS – Community & Home Assistance to Seniors – Support for Caregivers
- Support for Caregiver Workshops – Online Self-Management Program
- Caregiving Essentials – Free Online Program to Support Caregivers – Through McMaster University
- Caregiving Strategies – Provincial Geriatrics Leadership Ontario
- Young Caregivers Association