Caregiver Resources

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Image Description: Green background. On the left side, a purple and white cartoon image of one person with long hair down and one with long hair in a ponytail sitting together with mugs. On the right side white text states "Caring for caregivers. Camrose Public Library"


    As the warm months leave us and we enter our long winter, many people begin to feel the effects of seasonal changes. This can leave us feeling isolated and alone, especially in the time of social distancing. If you are caring for an at-risk loved one you may be taking additional precautions and feeling the effects of social isolation and burnout. Many support groups and social activities have moved virtual or gone on hiatus, compounding these effects. The calls to practice self-care begin, but how do you do that when you can't seem to find the time? 

    Camrose community organizations are changing to adapt to new needs and fill gaps in innovative ways. Today we are highlighting some of the resources that are available to you within Camrose and Camrose County. If you need assistance finding and navigating resources (or access to free classes, programs, books, and more), our library staff are always happy to work with you to limit the load. You can stop by during our regular hours or contact us via phone, mail, social media, or our contact form. 

    We've compiled three resources for each category with a quick comment on what the resource offers, to limit the time needed to sift through them. 

Caregiver Support Groups

Caregiver Connections - A local support group for caregivers of all kinds. They are currently running virtually, but monitor regularly for updates. 

DementiaTalk - Although this resource is not local to Camrose, it is a great Canadian forum of caregivers. There are all kinds of topics available and a French-language section!

Caregivers Alberta - This is an invaluable resource in Alberta, combining education, support, and general resources. 

Activity Inspiration and Materials

CPL Dementia Project Kits - We offer kits full of activities for your loved one with three different stages available (early, mid, and late). Check back soon for our Tales and Travels kits, best for early- to mid-stages, each themed around a different country. 

Hi-Low Books - Dementia-friendly reading materials with easy-to-read language and formatting without reading like a children's book. The concepts and stories suit a variety of interests such as gardening, hockey, friendship, or romance. 

Seniors' Centre Without Walls - A virtual seniors center featuring a wide variety of programs with options to join by calling in or by computer, whichever better suits you and your loved one. 

Healthcare and Homecare

Camrose Geriatric Assessment Program - This program provides assessment and care planning for adults aged 65+. They will work with care partners to help provide a customized plan for your loved one that allows for both their input and yours. This is a referral-only service with a bit of a waiting list. 

Camrose Home Care - AHS provided care to assist with in-home care needs such as respite services, loaned equipment, and both short-term and long-term care. 

CDSS Homemaking Services - A sliding scale service that provides in-home supports for daily living tasks and respite care for caregivers. 

Education

Camrose Public Library YouTube - We have a dementia series available featuring talks from community care partners and Alberta authors alongside virtual programs and themed playlists from our Subject Matters series!

Life With Dementia Podcast - An Alberta-based monthly podcast with a focus on, well, life with dementia. They cover a variety of topics through the lens of personal experience, relevant research, and practical tips. 

Alzheimer Society - Provides articles on many aspects of dementia and dementia care, from symptoms to safety to caring for yourself. They're a great place to start