Guilt, love and dedication: Caregivers share stories from across Alberta through CBC's call-in show

Many Albertans want to grow old intheir own homes, but that's tough without thehelp of family caregivers adult children, spouses and others who give time and energy to make it work.

On Monday onAlberta@Noon, Albertans shared theirstories of trying to make aging in place a reality.

Host Judy Aldousalso invited Jacquie Ealesto be her guest for the hour. Eales co-ordinates research at the University of Alberta on aging and policies around aging,and she has personal experience trying to help loved ones navigate this challenge.

The show heard stories from many Albertans trying to help their parents and spouses manoeuvre through the health-care system and make tough decisions about where and how to live. Sometimes it's not possible for people to keep living at home.

"The guilt is very real," said Eales, after one such story."Lots of caregivers impose it on themselves, feeling like they failed their parents when in reality, caregiving is a reciprocal relationship. It's important for the parents to recognize that there are limits to what their adult children can do for them."

LISTEN | Hear stories from other caregiverson Alberta@Noon:

This month, the CBC team in Alberta will focus on family caregivers and the challenge Alberta faces reforming care for the frail and elderly. Visitcbc.ca/familycareto read more.