Caregivers call for national strategy in wake of new report [Video]

A new report is highlighting the struggles of caregivers left to support family members who are aging, sick, or have disabilities, and is calling on a national strategy to recognize the financial and mental toll the often unpaid jobs can take.

The results of an online survey conducted by the Canadian Centre for Caregiving Excellence involving nearly 3,100 respondents is now shedding light on the rapidly growing problem.

The survey revealed that one-fifth of caregivers are over the age of 65, and who are often in need of help themselves.

On average, respondents said they spend five hours a day delivering care, and one-quarter of respondents reported poor mental health.

“I had my grandmother living with us growing up. First she took care of me, then she developed dementia. I took care of her starting at the age of 10. I saw my mom through a palliative care journey and …