Caregiver Support

Being a caregiver for someone living with kidney disease can lead to many new thoughts and feelings. It can be rewarding and challenging. If you feel this way, you are not alone.

Being a caregiver for someone may mean that your role has changed, or that you have taken on new roles and responsibilities in addition to your usual ones. This can affect your relationship with the person receiving care, or even your interactions with others and your own health. Often, it may take some time to adjust to these role changes.

Caring for someone else may take extra time and create stresses for you that are unexpected or difficult to cope with. Some tips are below.

Emotional Support

Take care of yourself to prevent burnout. This could involve having dedicated days off from caregiving duties. It's easy to focus so much on the other person – but you matter too! Don't forget to take breaks as needed, socialize and engage in activities that you enjoy.
Communicate with the person you are caring for. If you are uncomfortable with certain aspects of being a caregiver, you can discuss the issue with the person you are caring for and explore ways to find balance in the relationship.
Express your thoughts and emotions. You may have some thoughts and emotions that you don't feel comfortable sharing with the person you are caring for. It's okay to share these thoughts and feelings with others in your life, or join a support group of caregivers who are experiencing similar feelings.

Practical Support

Getting help with tasks: Being a caregiver can take a lot of time, but you need to be able to live your life too. If you find this role is too time consuming, explore ways to share the tasks. Perhaps you can have prepared meals or groceries delivered at times when you are too busy, or share your caregiving role with others.
Financial aid: Taking care of someone else can impact your ability to make an income, or involve extra costs. Visit our financial support page to learn about ways to reduce costs or access financial aid.

Asking for Help

Sometimes, it can be challenging to find time to tend to your own emotional and practical needs. Remember that it's okay to ask for help. Consider reaching out to:

Family members and friends
Your medical professionals
Kidney care social workers
Your local health authority (home care supports, respite, day programs, facility options)

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Provincial Health Services Authority

Caregiver Support

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