TORONTO – The government’s announcement that it will be investing $100 million in home care services, and supports for caregivers, is welcome news to Ontarians who receive care at home and who provide informal supports for their loved ones.

“Significant investments in home and respite care are long overdue in Ontario,” said Natasha Mistry, CARP Director of Stakeholder Relations. “Now we need to make sure that money gets to the front-lines where it can do the most good and help alleviate the burden of care for Ontario caregivers.”

The Ontario government says that it is providing $80 million for additional hours of nursing care and for personal supports, and an additional $20 million is to be invested in caregiver supports, like respite care.

As many as 41% of CARP members report providing some form of informal care to a loved one, with 57% reporting that they provided care in their home. For those providing care, nearly half reported health issues related to the stress of caregiving.

“CARP is glad to see the Minister recognize that more needs to be done to support caregivers,” said Mistry. “Millions of Canadians provide informal care to a loved one, but too many lack the financial and emotional supports they require.”

The 300,000 member-strong organization is fighting for robust and comprehensive caregiver support, including financial assistance, workplace protection, respite care and formal training. CARP will be launching a caregiver call to action campaign to mark National Seniors Day.

“Caregivers are a vital part of our health care system – we need to make sure they are cared for.”

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