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On January 27, Wendy Johnstone discussed ‘The Art of Persuasion in Caregiving’ in our FCBC Facebook Live. It’s safe to say that lecturing, arguing, and telling the people we care about what “they need to be doing” to manage their illness or recovery typically results in less harmony, more resistance and likely less happiness for […]

Ben Ziegler, thanks for the remarkable support and insights at our caregiver support groups  Written by Lycia Rodrigues Family Caregivers of BC (FCBC) is thrilled to have Ben Ziegler as one of our caregiver support group facilitators. In 2017, Ben and I connected about expanding our caregiver support groups to create a men’s-only group. I […]

For many people as they age, living as long as they can in their own home is ideal. We love our comforts, our routine, and our independence. But there comes a time when the decision to have more support or to move into long-term care becomes a reality, whether because of a medical condition or […]

On January 6, Victoria Lougheed walked caregivers through the process of reviewing the past year and planning out the next to ensure self-care, community engagement, and prevent burnout. Here are some of the resources Victoria mentions in her video: Family Caregivers of BC Resources: Caregiver Support Plan Flipbook: https://www.familycaregiversbc.ca/archives/3d-flip-book/caregiver-support-plan Caregiver Plan worksheet (accompanies Flipbook): https://www.familycaregiversbc.ca/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/FCBC-Caregiver-Plan.pdf […]

On December 9, Wendy Johnstone of Family Caregivers of BC led a Facebook Live about Energy Zappers – those Along with Wendy’s informative video, here are some additional resources to support caregivers: those mental, physical and emotional drains that can make a big impact on caregivers. Here are some resources to accompany Wendy’s session: Tools: […]

Dear Caregiver Support Line, I have been providing care for my partner for many years.  They are now requiring more and more physical care and I feel that they are at risk being at home alone. I am feeling more and more burnt out and exhausted – I just can’t do this anymore more. I […]

Once the decision has been made that placement in a care community is necessary, caregivers are often faced with the “what next” question. Because there are different levels of care and each community has a different ‘personality’, it’s very important to be as prepared as possible for the transition.  In Episode 12 of our Caregivers […]

Written by Wendy Johnstone, Provincial Program Consultant and Gerontologist with Family Caregivers of BC and originally published in Inspired 55+ Lifestyle Magazine. Margo is doing a lot: she’s caring for her husband who is recovering from a stroke, and she’s supporting her adult daughter with mental health challenges. She’s still working part-time and is now […]

Research shows that family caregivers who list self-care as a priority can better provide care, are at lower risk of burnout and becoming ill, and find more joy in their role as a caregiver. Starting with small acts of self-care can create the opportunity to see the benefits. Calling a friend who lifts you up, […]

On November 18, Wendy Johnstone of Family Caregivers of BC led a Facebook Live on the topic of Informal Respite and Supports vs. Formal Respite and Supports. Along with Wendy’s informative video, here are some additional resources to support caregivers: Blogs: Creating a Circle of Care for Caregivers: Mobilizing Informal Respite Getting a Break from […]