A new study released by EMD Serono as part of their Embracing Carers™ Initiative, called The Carer Well-Being Index explores the impact of COVID-19 on the unpaid caregiver community in Canada. The index reveals some alarming trends affecting Canadian caregivers including rising demands, increased responsibilities, inequities and an overall toll on their health and well-being.
Overall, the study showed that COVID-19 has increased demands and pressures on unpaid caregivers, causing unprecedented burnout (70%), with a 12 per cent growth in those taking on caregiver duties and the average time Canadians spend caregiving increasing by 4.8 hours a week.
Canadian Carers are Feeling More Burnt Out than Ever
- 71% of respondents said they are feeling more burnt out than ever, with 70% indicating worsening mental/emotional health, 55% with worsening financial health and 51% indicating worsening physical health
- Canadian carers have taken on greater responsibilities surrounding emotional support, managing technology, homecare, and advocating for their loved one, with a 42% increase in homecare responsibilities due to the pandemic
- 64% of caregivers in Canada say that their primary responsibility is to manage doctors’ appointments
Female Carers Disproportionately Affected
- Female carers and those caring for someone with an ongoing cognitive condition are facing unprecedented challenges
- 61% of Canadian carers surveyed identified as female with 71% saying that being a carer negatively impacts their emotional/mental health
- Two-thirds (65%) of female respondents say that being a carer has had a negative impact on their financial health (vs. 56% average Canadian carer)
To learn more about the Embracing Carers™ Initiative and for a full copy of the study visit: https://www.emdserono.ca/ca-en/company/embracing-carers.html
