Behind every patient is a carer; someone that provides long-term, unpaid and in-home care to those of us that need it most. Our first-ever Carer Well-Being Index, part of the Embracing Carers® initiative, revealed that COVID-19 exacerbated the challenges of caregiving, putting unprecedented pressure on the role of family caregivers. This made us ask the question: who cares for the carers?
It's why we are launching the Caregivers ConciergeTM – an index of platforms, programs and resources, designed to provide support to caregivers, right within their communities.
If you are feeling more stressed and burnt out as a carer, you are not alone. The COVID-19 pandemic took a toll on the physical, emotional and financial well-being of Canadian caregivers who have taken on increased responsibilities surrounding emotional support and home care assistance.
71%
of carers feel more burnt out than ever due to caring for someone during the pandemic
95%
feel society doesn’t recognize their work as vital
66%
report caregiving has negatively impacted their emotional or mental health
51%
experienced a decline in their physical health due to the pandemic
56%
feel being a carer negatively impacts their financial health
The challenges of caring for a loved one, whether for a few hours a day or as a live-in caregiver, have compounded. Quick and easy access to experts and services can go a long way in helping both primary unpaid caregivers and patients. Through Caregivers ConciergeTM, we have partnered with organizations committed to meeting the most pressing need of carers.
Caregivers Alberta
An organization dedicated to empowering Alberta’s one million caregivers. Get access to all the resources you need to take charge of your caregiving journey.
Visit WebsiteTeam CarePal
An Alberta-based start-up app that connects carers with the right care organizations. Transform your family caregiving experience through a range of continuing care services.
Visit WebsiteEmbracing Carers® is our global initiative, in collaboration with leading organizations around the world, to increase awareness, discussion and action about the often-overlooked needs of carers.
Through this movement, we hope to build connections and implement practical solutions to support the often-overlooked needs of caregivers.
With the initiative’s four key aims to increase global awareness, broaden stakeholder engagement, engage healthcare systems and drive policy focus, Embracing Carers® plays an important role in elevating the public health issue of caregiving.
We are the Canadian healthcare business of the vibrant science and technology company Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany. We aspire to create, improve and prolong life for people living with difficult-to-treat conditions like infertility, multiple sclerosis and cancer.
Part of that mission is caring for the carers behind each patient. If you have any questions please contact the team at communications@emdserono.com
