'Don't go at it alone': Online group hopes to support caregivers amid COVID-19

As familiesacross the country continue to practise physical distancing, and in some cases self-isolation, many caregivers are left trying to figure out how to best to support their loved onesduring the pandemic.

An online support group for caregivers in Waterloo region and Wellington County is hoping to meet that need.

The Facebook group Caregiver Connections Waterloo-Wellingtonwas created in October 2019 as a platform for caregivers to support one another by sharingresources and information and tips onhow to navigate the healthcare system.

Now, the group has shifted its focus to ways caregivers cansupport one another during the pandemic.

"During times like these, during a global pandemic, I think it's safe to say that caregiver stress is likely at an all time high,"said Emma Whitehouse,project lead for family caregiver education and training at St. Joseph's Health Centre in Guelph and one of the creators of the online group.

The group is for anybodywho is providing care to a family member,friend,partner, or neighbour, she said.

"Supporting the caregiver themselves is vitally important," she said, noting caregivers should take the time to tend to their mental health and wellbeing.

She addscaregivers shouldreach out to local resources if they can or check out theOntario Caregiver Organization for information on how to stay connected with loved ones during COVID-19, as well as access to a24/7 helpline.

Whitehouse says there's been more focus on caregiver mental health in recent years, but more can be done to help.

'Don't go at it alone'

If a caregiver is looking after someone with COVID-19, Whitehousesays, "don't go at it alone."

Whether that's calling a family doctor, calling Telehealth Ontario or reaching out tohealthcare providersa person is already in communication with, it's important to reach out,Whitehouse says.

She hopesCaregiver Connections Waterloo-Wellington can also be a place caregivers can turn tofor information, but also be a platform to share their experiences.

"During times like these, it's exponentiallymore important to make sure people are getting the information they need because it's changing so rapidly and changing everyday," she said.