A Guide for the

CAREGIVER
Information and Resources
for Caregivers
For copies of the guide or to offer ideas for future editions,
please contact the Seniors and Healthy Aging Secretariat at
204-945-6565 in Winnipeg, toll-free 1-800-665-6565 in Manitoba;
email seniors@gov.mb.ca or visit www.gov.mb.ca/shas.

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS
Some of the content in this document is based on the book,
Keys to Eldercare in Manitoba by Jan Cooper (St. Boniface
Hospital Auxillary, 1990).

A Guide for the CAREGIVER

TABLE OF CONTENTS
Introduction 4
The Caregiving Experience 5
The Emotional Journey of Caregiving 7
Employment and Caregiving 9
Tips for Caregivers 10
You don’t have to be all things to all people 11
Getting the family involved 11
Dealing with stress 13
Building a Support Network 15
Seeking Counselling and Support Services 15
Working with Community Resources 16
Working with Home Care Services 18
Accessing Geriatric Assessment 20
Financial Resources 21
Housing, Hospitalization and Hospice 22
Housing 22
Hospitalization 23
Hospice and Palliative Care 24
Legal and Safety Issues 27
Protection for Persons in Care 27
Legal Issues 28
Resources and Support Services 30
Regional Health Authority Contact Information 35
Frequently Asked Questions 37
The Caregiver Recognition Act 39
INTRODUCTION
Caregivers have and will continue to play an important
and valuable role in our lives, communities and province.
This guide has been created to provide caregivers with
information on the rewards, challenges and resources
available that may support them.
Manitoba’s population of older adults is growing. It is
expected to increase by 43 per cent over the next 20 years.
Of the older adults currently living in Manitoba, 93 per cent
live in the community. Many of these individuals have
chosen to age in place and remain in their homes and/or
communities for as long as possible. For many, informal
caregivers play a key role in helping care receivers achieve
this goal. In fact, within our long-term care system, informal
caregivers are an essential support.

4 • A Guide for the CAREGIVER

THE CAREGIVING EXPERIENCE
Most Manitobans will find themselves in the caregiving role at
some point. A caregiver is a person who is providing informal
and unpaid personal care, support and/or help to another person
because that other person lives with challenges due to a disability,
an illness, an injury and/or aging.
One might be caring for someone under the same roof or miles
away. This may be a new experience for you or perhaps, you have
been providing care for several years. Whether you are caring for
an aging partner, friend or parent, seeing yourself in the caregiving
role can be key to coping and accessing support services.
It is important to establish a relationship that is comfortable
for the person you are caring for – and yourself. Focus on
what the person can do today – respect his/her desire to
remain independent.
Learning how to accept help is key to self-care for everyone.
Accepting help from others is hard, especially for someone who
has not needed help before. Sometimes, people receiving care
want to keep or regain control so much that they show challenging
behaviours. These can include refusing help, belittling the
caregiver’s efforts, making constant demands or taking out their
frustrations on those trying to help.
While the behaviour can be upsetting, it might be easier to
understand if you look at what is happening from the care
receiver’s perspective. The care receiver may be frustrated and
trying to cope with the new situation. Help the individual be as
independent as possible.

A Guide for the CAREGIVER • 5

THE CAREGIVING EXPERIENCE (continued)
An honest conversation can help relieve tension, solve problems and
express feelings. Listen to the care receivers. If possible, come up
with a new plan/approach together. If communicating is hard, try:
• making sure the area is quiet
• speaking calmly
• using simple terms
• using gentle touch for assurance
• suggesting several choices instead of asking open-ended questions
• allowing the person time to respond
• avoiding arguments
Many disease-specific organizations have helpful advice about how to
approach difficult behaviours. It can also be helpful to join a caregiver
support group so you can talk to other caregivers who have been
through similar experiences.
Challenging behaviours can also be signs of disease, such as
dementia. In this case, it is important to learn about the disease and
stay informed about common behavioural symptoms. The more you
understand about the medical condition, the more confident you will
be in providing care.
See the caregiving role as a change rather than a role reversal.
There is a myth that children and parents reverse roles when the
adult child must tend to the needs of an aging parent. This is not
true. Caregivers who recognize that their parents or partners
are not children are better prepared to care for an increasingly
dependent person. Avoid treating older people as children –
either through actions or tone of voice – to help them keep a
sense of dignity. Ensuring dignity and privacy will encourage
their independence.

6 • A Guide for the CAREGIVER

THE EMOTIONAL JOURNEY
OF CAREGIVING
The caregiving journey can be emotional for the caregiver and
the person receiving care. There are many rewards and joys of
caregiving, such as:
• having a new relationship with the person receiving care
• giving back to someone who cared for you
• enjoying a sense of accomplishment and satisfaction from doing
a job well
• developing new skills, knowledge (ex: advocacy abilities)
• increasing compassion and personal growth
• making friends through support groups
• building greater self esteem
• creating memories
• experiencing less grief for what used to be
• finding joy in the present
Along with the positive, life-affirming feelings, it is common to have
upsetting thoughts and emotions that challenge your effectiveness
as a caregiver. Recognizing that you are not alone in experiencing
these powerful emotions can be helpful.
Feeling guilty can be normal, but do not let it get the best of you.
Almost every caregiver occasionally experiences feelings of guilt,
including guilt over not doing enough or choices made. Do not let
guilt overwhelm you. This includes not feeling guilty when you
take time for yourself. Proper self-care will help you cope with the
stresses of being a caregiver. Getting help can reduce feelings of
guilt, so make the most of your support network.

A Guide for the CAREGIVER • 7

THE EMOTIONAL JOURNEY OF CAREGIVING (continued)
Feeling angry and frustrated is natural.
Feelings of anger and frustration are common among caregivers. You
may be angry about the way your relationship with the care receiver
is changing, or your new role as a caregiver. Many caregivers feel
frustrated at their inability to meet all the needs of the individual or
to balance their caring roles and their own personal lives.
Some feel angry about the physical/mental changes the care
receiver is experiencing. It is normal to feel upset about these
changes, but keep in mind that we all experience physical changes
as we age. Some people experience mental changes. Some changes
are reversible, others are not. Regular medical checkups improve
the success rate for reversible changes.
Taking out your frustration on others only adds to your feelings of
guilt and loss of control. It also creates tension between you and
others. If you find yourself snapping at the person you are caring
for, then stop and take a break. Do something positive for yourself
to relieve the tension. You can ask for help from your support
network or from a trained professional (ex: refer to Resource and
Support Services Section starting on page 30).
Feelings of depression can be normal; help is available.
The losses suffered by the care receiver, family and caregivers
themselves can often lead to depression. It is important to take
regular breaks and pursue interests you enjoy outside of the
caregiving role. Build a support network and take advantage
of community or professional counselling services. All will help
you manage your caregiving responsibilities. If you are sad or
depressed, talk to someone you trust (ex: friend, family member,
neighbour) about how you are feeling.

8 • A Guide for the CAREGIVER

EMPLOYMENT AND CAREGIVING
Balancing work and caregiving responsibilities is a challenge.
Canada’s workforce has undergone dramatic changes in the past
40 years. As a result, more workers find themselves also caring for
aging relatives. A large percentage of these employees are facing
high stress levels associated with trying to juggle work and family.
The good news is that employers are becoming increasingly aware
of this trend. They realize the struggle to balance work and family
commitments affects employee productivity and, in turn, the health
of the organization.
In response, workplaces are promoting more family-friendly
organizational policies, such as flexible work arrangements, family
leave, employee assistance programs and educational opportunities.
If you are balancing work and caregiving responsibilities, check
with your employer to see what mutually agreeable arrangements
can be made.

COMPASSIONATE CARE BENEFITS

If you are eligible for Employment Insurance and you wish to care for
a sick or dying family member, you may be eligible for Compassionate
Care Benefits. This program provides temporary financial
compensation and job security for a certain period of time. For more
information or to receive your application package, contact:
Service Canada
Toll Free: 1-800-206-7218 (English)
1-800-529-3742 (TTY)
Website: www.servicecanada.gc.ca/eng/ei/types/compassionate_
care.shtml

A Guide for the CAREGIVER • 9

TIPS FOR CAREGIVERS
The caregiving journey can be a very rewarding and challenging
experience. Caregivers are often juggling several responsibilities,
such as caring for a person, raising a family, working full-time,
volunteering and personal interests. The following are practical tips
that may be helpful along this journey.
• Learn about the condition of the care receiver, the physical and
behavioural changes of normal aging and changes that may
occur over time due to the illness (ex: normal aging does not
cause dementia). Getting information from organizations and
professionals will help you make informed decisions in caregiving.
It will also help you assess any changes you may notice in the
care receiver.
• Get resources (ex: books, magazines, DVDs) from your local library
on helpful topics such as stress management and self-care.
• Consider getting equipment designed to help people with
disabilities (ex: bathtub aids, walkers). Many items can be
borrowed or rented. Stick to a routine when caring for someone
to promote a sense of security.
• It is important to plan for the future. Consider your finances, your
support networks and the resources available in your community.
• Be realistic. Ask family, friends, health care providers or
professionals for help whenever you need it.
• Learn about available resources through the Manitoba Seniors’
Guide and Caregiver Inventory (details on page 30).

10 • A Guide for the CAREGIVER

YOU DON’T HAVE TO BE
ALL THINGS TO ALL PEOPLE.
Strive for balance, not perfection. Caring for another is an emotional
experience. It can be difficult to find solutions that make everyone
happy. The following suggestions can help you cope more effectively
with the caregiving challenges.
• Accept that there are some things you cannot change, so focus on
the things you can do.
• Keep a record of the care receiver’s major behaviour changes and
your responses to them.
• Help the care receiver cope with his or her own feelings.
• Use various communication methods, such as touching, hugging,
humming and singing. Things like serving a favourite food or
taking walks together can help strengthen your relationship with
the person in your care.
• Use humour when handling difficult situations.
• Take time to reflect on success and don’t dwell on what you see as
failure. Make a point of noting the positives each day.

GETTING THE FAMILY INVOLVED

Every family is unique. Designing a support plan in advance, with
input from all family members, has many advantages.
If something happens, each family member has the satisfaction of
knowing a system is in place that outlines what needs to be done
and who will do it. You may find family relationships strengthen
when you work together to find creative ways to solve problems.
Finding ways to share caregiving responsibilities helps to keep the
situation – and ourselves – in balance.

A Guide for the CAREGIVER • 11

GETTING THE FAMILY INVOLVED (continued)
Here are some tips for planning with your family.
• If the care receiver is mentally alert, determine his or her wishes about
the need for help and plans for the future. Discuss what type of care will
be needed and where this care will be given.
• Consider the larger network you already have, such as friends,
neighbours and relatives.
• Listen to each other and agree on plans for your family member.
• Ensure that your plans are workable.
• If you reach a deadlock, do not give up. To get back on track, focus
on the wishes of the care receiver.
• Try to establish a clear back-up plan for times when you are
not available.
• Make sure friends and support group members fully understand
your challenges so they can be as helpful as possible.
• Do not demand too many changes from family members.
Accept the help they offer and realize that they may want to do it
their way.
• Everyone should accept a compromise once all options
are explored.
• Ask questions, get information about resources, supports and options.

12 • A Guide for the CAREGIVER

DEALING WITH STRESS
SELF CARE
To care for others, first be a friend to yourself. It is critical to take
care of yourself. To avoid caregiving stress, you need to find ways
to manage your own stress. The following are some suggestions you
may wish to consider.
• Take care of your health. Make sure you get enough rest, good
nutrition and regular exercise.
• Trust and accept your own abilities and talents.
• Practice gentleness with yourself and others.
• Be proactive, not reactive. Do what you think is right.
• Remember that anger and resentment are often symptoms
of exhaustion.
• Think of resting as recharging, not as being lazy. Let go of petty
grievances and grudges.
• Pursue hobbies and interests you enjoy.
• Recognize and respect your limits as a caregiver. When you reach your
limits, ask family, friends, health care professionals or the community
for help. Do not be afraid to share your feelings with others, especially
professionals, as they can help you cope.

PREVENTING BURNOUT
Continuous feelings of rage, alienation and fear are not normal.
Caring for another person, especially over a long period of time,
can be physically and emotionally draining. You may find yourself
being forced to continually do routine tasks, while wishing you were
someplace else. If this sounds familiar, you may be reaching the
burnout stage.

A Guide for the CAREGIVER • 13

Here are some ways to cope with potential burnout (ex: continuous
feelings of being overwhelmed, resentment, and fear).
• Learn to recognize the signs of stress.
• Find someone you can talk to about your feelings.
• Set realistic goals and determine your priorities.
• Balance work, family and time for yourself. It is critical to make
time for you, even if it is just an hour or two per day.
• Consider joining a support group that can help you manage
stress, find resources and reduce feelings of isolation.
• Talk to a professional (ex: social worker, psychologist, nurse) who
is trained in counselling.
• Look for support through your workplace’s employee
assistance program.
• Take advantage of respite care, which provides temporary
caregiving, while you take a break.

COPING WITH GRIEF

When you lose someone you are caring for, it can be an extremely
difficult time. Emotions can be very intense and can come in waves.
Each person grieves in his or her own way, but none of us should feel
we have to suffer alone.
Palliative care organizations offer bereavement supports, so explore
your options. These can include support through one-on-one
phone calls, bereavement groups or grief seminars about working
through loss.
To get more information about bereavement support, contact
Palliative Manitoba, or your local regional health authority (pages 24
and 35–36 in this guide).

14 • A Guide for the CAREGIVER

BUILDING A SUPPORT NETWORK
“My time for keeping up with social contacts is limited. Friends and
neighbours have asked that I let them know if there is anything they
can do. How can they be included without my imposing on them?”
Caregivers need to know when and where to get help.
Here are some tips about asking for help.
• Keep a list of specific tasks or requests.
• Ask your friends how they would like to help.
• Express your appreciation for help given.
• Ask close friends their opinions about how the situation is going
and be prepared to hear the truth.
• The company of good friends can be a tremendous
morale booster.
We are often easier on others, than we are on ourselves. Remember,
no one is perfect. When you look back on any mistakes you have
made, recognize that you did not know then what you know now.

SEEKING COUNSELLING AND

SUPPORT SERVICES
SUPPORT GROUPS CAN HELP
Do some research to find a support group that meets your
scheduling and personal needs.
Joining a support group may give you an opportunity to:
• share experiences about coping with caregiving responsibilities
• exchange helpful information (ex: normal aging vs.
age-related illness)

A Guide for the CAREGIVER • 15

• share thoughts and ideas without fear of judgement
• overcome feelings of isolation and helplessness
• exchange practical ideas and explore new ways to solve problems
• share experiences about dealing with the medical community and
other professionals
• cultivate gentleness and humour in relationships with others
For more information about support groups or professional
counselling, check the Manitoba Seniors’ Guide and Caregiver
Inventory, or call your regional health authority or refer to
CONTACT Community Information, listed in the Resources Section of
this guide starting on page 30.

CAREGIVING FROM A DISTANCE

Today, technology allows caregivers to help care for people at a
distance. Even if you are caring for someone in a different area,
the stress can be just as real. Although providing direct personal
care may not be possible from another city, many caregivers are in
contact with services for their loved ones via phone or Internet.

WORKING WITH COMMUNITY RESOURCES

Community resources can be very helpful to caregivers.
Services that may be needed include:
• meal services
• housekeeping
• private health care
• safety services
• personal emergency response systems
• transportation services

16 • A Guide for the CAREGIVER

• medication information
• respite
Be realistic about your strengths and needs.
Think about the kind of help you need before calling
community resources.
Be realistic about the contributions of family and friends.
Do not assume you do not qualify for help – ask first.
Many communities have established Seniors Community Resource
Councils to help seniors live independently in their homes/
communities as long as possible. Services provided by Seniors
Community Resource Councils vary by area, but can include:
• information and referral
• transportation
• emergency response information kits (E.R.I.K.)
• advocacy
• shopping/errands
• local housing listings
• health and wellness activities
• assistance filling out forms
• temporary lending of mobility devices
• income tax preparation
To locate a Seniors Community Resource Council in your community,
reference the Manitoba Seniors’ Guide or call 204-945-6565,
toll free 1-800-665-6565.

A Guide for the CAREGIVER • 17

PROGRAMS AND SERVICES WHEN LIVING WITH
CHRONIC CONDITIONS
Receive a referral to the appropriate organization by asking the
Seniors Information Line or looking at the Manitoba Seniors’ Guide
or Caregiver Inventory (contact details on page 30). To receive a copy
of the Seniors’ Guide or Caregiver Inventory please call
204-945-6565 or Toll Free: 1-800-665-6565 or visit www.gov.mb.ca/shas.

WORKING WITH HOME CARE SERVICES

In Manitoba, home care services can help older adults live in their
homes for as long as safely possible. Home care services may include
respite, home support, adult day programs and medical and personal
care services. It is important to develop a working relationship with
your case co-ordinator.
To be eligible for home care services in Manitoba, a person must:
• be a Manitoba resident, registered with Manitoba Health
• need health services or help with daily living
• need support to live independently
• need more help than what is available from existing supports and
community resources
Adult day programs offer more long-term socialization and require a
referral from a home care case co-ordinator.

18 • A Guide for the CAREGIVER

Manitobans may be eligible to co-ordinate their own non-
professional services through the self and family managed care
option. Your case co-ordinator can provide more information.
Program eligibility for self and family managed care is determined
by the regional health authority.
For more information on home care services in Manitoba, visit
www.gov.mb.ca/health/homecare/nonprof.html or contact your local
regional health authority office (refer to pages 35–36).
A Guide to Home Care Services in Manitoba is available online at:
www.gov.mb.ca/health/homecare/guide.html
If you do not agree with the home care assessment and
accompanying services, you should contact the case co-ordinator.
If you are not able to achieve a resolution, you can contact the
Manitoba Health Appeal Board at:
Phone: 204-945-5408
Toll Free: 1-800-744-3257
Email: appeals@gov.mb.ca
Website: www.gov.mb.ca/health/appealboard
For private care options, consult the Yellow Pages of your Manitoba
phone book under Home Health Services, Homemakers and/or Nurses.

A Guide for the CAREGIVER • 19

ACCESSING GERIATRIC ASSESSMENT
Comprehensive geriatric assessments may be required in situations
where it is not clear why a senior’s health status or mental status is
changing. This assessment may be helpful in determining the cause
of this change and potential treatment options should they exist.
In-home assessments for seniors can occur in most areas of the
province, and in some cases, anyone can refer to these services on
behalf of a senior.
Geriatric day hospitals offer assessment and rehabilitation. To access
geriatric day hospitals, a referral from a primary care provider
is required. If the person in your care is attending a day hospital,
consider its staff to be an extension of the care team. Although
geriatric day hospitals exist only in Winnipeg, they do accept referrals
from outside of Winnipeg for assessment purposes only.
For further information on accessing geriatric assessment, please
contact your regional health authority (contact information can be
found on pages 35 and 36 of this guide).

20 • A Guide for the CAREGIVER

FINANCIAL RESOURCES
PRIMARY CAREGIVER TAX CREDIT
Manitobans providing care to spouses, relatives, neighbours or
friends who live at home may be eligible for a refundable credit
up to a maximum of three care recipients. Assessment criteria and
amounts may change, so please contact the following for more
information:
Manitoba Health, Seniors and Active Living
Phone: 204-788-6646
or
Manitoba Tax Assistance Office
Phone: 204-948-2115 / 1-800-782-0771
Email: tao@gov.mb.ca
Website: www.gov.mb.ca/finance/tao

FEDERAL BENEFITS
For more information about the Caregiver Amount,
Compassionate Care Benefit, Disability Tax Credit,
Veterans Affairs Caregiver Relief Benefit, please contact:
Service Canada
Toll Free: 1-800-206-7218 / TTY: 1-800-529-3742
Website: www.servicecanada.gc.ca
or
Canada Revenue Agency
Toll Free: 1-800-959-8281
Website: www.cra-arc.gc.ca

A Guide for the CAREGIVER • 21

HOUSING, HOSPITALIZATION AND HOSPICE
HOUSING
Many housing options, each offering various levels of care and
support, are available to older Manitobans and their caregivers.
Options include:
• condominiums
• co-operative housing
• independent living with tenant services (assisted living)
• life lease rental housing
• private non-profit housing
• residential care
• subsidized rental housing
• supportive housing
• supports to seniors in group living (SSGL)
• personal care homes (PCH)
If care within the home is no longer a viable option, it may be
time to consider other options, such as a personal care home or
supportive housing.
• Application for placement in a PCH or supportive housing must
be made through your home care case co-ordinator. A panel of
professionals reviews the application package, which must include
a form from the applicant’s doctor, and lets the applicant and
designated others know what is decided.
• Residents of a PCH pay a daily residential charge, based on their
previous tax assessment from the Canada Revenue Agency.

22 • A Guide for the CAREGIVER

Expect mixed emotions. Caregivers may feel both relief and sadness
about the shift in care responsibility that results from a care receiver
moving into a PCH.
Consider planning for the future even if additional supports are not
required right now. Often, there will be a long waiting list for some
places. Check the Manitoba Seniors’ Guide for a detailed description
of housing options. Discuss these options with your home care case
co-ordinator. Whenever possible, involve the care receiver in any
discussions and decisions about different housing options.

HOSPITALIZATION
When a person is hospitalized, it is often a stressful time for
everyone involved. Here are some tips for getting through the
experience with minimal distress.
• Ask for the name of the head nurse, or primary care nurse, in case you
want to discuss a problem, get information or a referral.
• The hospital social worker can provide counselling and support and
may also be involved in the discharge planning.
• Rehabilitation services require doctor referrals. Find out what
rehabilitation therapy is required and how you can help the patient.
• There may be a meeting of all the professionals involved with the case
to plan future care. If you wish to be involved in this meeting, notify
the social worker as soon as possible.
• Before the patient returns home, if additional supports may be
needed to care for the person at home, connect with the home care
case co-ordinator and the patient’s doctor to further discuss what
type of new care the person may require.

A Guide for the CAREGIVER • 23

HOSPICE AND PALLIATIVE CARE
PALLIATIVE CARE PROGRAMS
End of life, or palliative, care is health care for people (of any age)
and their families who are living with a life-limiting illness, usually
at an advanced stage. The goal of palliative care programs is to
manage physical symptoms and provide social, emotional and
spiritual support for patients and their families throughout the
course of the illness. It includes bereavement support. All Manitoba
regional health authorities offer palliative care.
For more information about palliative care programs in your
community, contact the regional health authority office nearest you
(see pages 35–36).

PALLIATIVE CARE DRUG ACCESS PROGRAM

Manitoba Health, Seniors and Active Living offers this program to
help people at the end stages of their illnesses, when the focus
of care is on comfort, not cure. By covering the cost of eligible
drugs for patients’ use, a major financial burden is removed for the
patients and their families.
For more information about applying for this program, contact your
doctor or palliative care co-ordinator in your local regional health
authority listed on pages 35–36 or visit
www.gov.mb.ca/health/pcdap/index.html.

24 • A Guide for the CAREGIVER

HOSPICE AND PALLIATIVE CARE (continued)
PALLIATIVE MANITOBA (PM)
PM provides free, confidential, community-based support, education
and companion services to adults with life-limiting illnesses, their
caregivers and those who are bereaved. The following are the
programs and services available.
• The Volunteer Companion Program gives patients support and
help with practical matters (ex: shopping, banking, excursions,
etc.) through one-to-one matches with volunteers.
• The Sunflower Day Support Club offers group activities, support,
and information in a community-based setting for adults with life-
limiting illnesses and their caregivers.
• Bereavement support services, including one-to-one telephone
bereavement support, grief seminars and support groups.
• Information and education on a wide range of topics related to
life-limiting illnesses, palliative care and bereavement, including
the Compassionate Care course for association volunteers and
community caregivers.
Contact:
Palliative Manitoba
Phone: 204-889-8525
Toll Free: 1-800-539-0295
Email: info@palliativemanitoba.ca
Website: www.palliativemanitoba.ca

A Guide for the CAREGIVER • 25

HOSPICE AND PALLIATIVE CARE (continued)
CANADIAN VIRTUAL HOSPICE
The Canadian Virtual Hospice provides online support and
personalized information about palliative and end-of-life care to
patients, family members, health care providers, researchers and
educators, including:
• online access to palliative care specialists by forwarding
questions to a clinical team with expertise in palliative care
• articles about managing symptoms, accessing financial benefits
and other topics to help navigate the health care system and
communicate with local health care providers
• tools for professionals to better care for and communicate with
patients and families
• latest research findings
Contact:
Canadian Virtual Hospice
Email: info@virtualhospice.ca
Website: www.virtualhospice.ca

26 • A Guide for the CAREGIVER

LEGAL AND SAFETY ISSUES
Providing long-term care for somebody can be a challenging,
stressful role. Sometimes stress leads us to say and do things that
we would not in different circumstances. It is important to ask for
help if you are feeling pressure and are afraid you might say or do
something that is harmful to the person in your care.
There are also situations where the person receiving care may be
experiencing physical or cognitive changes that cause them to be
physically or verbally aggressive. It is important to make sure that
both of you are always safe.
The Seniors Abuse Support Line is a confidential, 24-hour service,
providing older adults, family members, professionals and others
with counselling, information, referral and follow-up (24 hours).
You can reach the Seniors Abuse Support Line at 1-888-896-7183.

PROTECTION FOR PERSONS IN CARE

The Protection for Persons in Care Act helps protect people from
abuse while receiving care in personal care homes, hospitals or any
other designated health facility. It requires that a service provider or
other person who reasonably believes that a patient is, or is likely to
be, abused must promptly report the information to The Protection
for Persons in Care Office.
If you are concerned about the safety of someone living in a
personal care home or hospital, contact:
The Protection for Persons in Care Office
Phone: 204-788-6366
Toll Free: 1-866-440-6366

A Guide for the CAREGIVER • 27

LEGAL ISSUES
Legal issues are an important, but sometimes stressful, part of
caregiving. The following is a brief overview of legal information
and issues important to caregivers. To receive a copy of the Legal
Information Guide for Seniors, contact the Seniors Information
Line (refer to page 30).

POWER OF ATTORNEY
If the person in your care is competent, discuss the option of granting
a Power of Attorney (POA) to a trusted individual. There are many
types of Power of Attorneys, all options should be discussed with a
lawyer. Also review wills and health care directives to ensure they are
current and reflect the wishes of the person receiving care.

HEALTH CARE DIRECTIVE

• As a Manitoban, you have the right to accept or refuse medical
treatment at any time. The Health Care Directives Act allows
you to make your own decisions about the amount and type
of health care and treatment you want to receive, should you
become unable to communicate.
• The Act also allows you to name another person to make medical
decisions for you, if you should become unable to make them
yourself. This is done by completing a Health Care Directive.
• A Health Care Directive should be a record of the person’s current
wishes and instructions.
• Talk to your doctor before completing the directive to ensure your
instructions are clear and easily understood. Your choices should
then be typed or clearly printed.
The health care directive form is available online at:
www.gov.mb.ca/health/documents/hcd.pdf

28 • A Guide for the CAREGIVER

LEGAL ISSUES (continued)
PATIENT ADVOCATE FORM
The Patient Advocate Form is a tool from the Manitoba Institute
for Patient Safety, created to help people select someone who can
speak and act on their behalf.
The tool provides information on patient advocates and why
you should choose one. The patient advocate form has tips on
selecting an advocate, the differences between patient advocates
and health care proxies and frequently asked questions and
answers. The form includes a checklist of tasks that you may want
an advocate to handle.
If you have concerns about the competency of the person you are
caring for, consult his or her doctor, and then a lawyer to learn more
about your legal options.
For more information about the Patient Advocate Form and Manitoba
Institute for Patient Safety, contact:
The Manitoba Institute of Patient Safety
Toll Free: 1-866-927-6477
Website: www.safetoask.ca and www.mbips.ca

A Guide for the CAREGIVER • 29

RESOURCES AND SUPPORT SERVICES
CAREGIVER INVENTORY OF PROGRAMS AND SERVICES
For a list of resources and services for Manitoba caregivers,
visit the Seniors and Healthy Aging Secretariat website at
www.gov.mb.ca/shas.

SENIORS INFORMATION LINE

The Seniors Information Line is an information and referral phone
service for seniors, family members and caregivers. Callers can
access information on seniors’ programs and services across
Manitoba. For more information, contact (Mon. to Fri., 8:30 a.m. to
4:30 p.m.):
Seniors Information Line
Phone: 204-945-6565
Toll Free: 1-800-665-6565
Email: seniors@gov.mb.ca
Website: www.gov.mb.ca/shas

MANITOBA SENIORS’ GUIDE

The Manitoba Seniors’ Guide is a resource guide, listing all the
services and programs available for older Manitobans. To receive a
copy, contact:
Seniors and Healthy Aging Secretariat
Manitoba Health, Seniors and Active Living
Phone: 204-945-6565
Toll Free: 1-800-665-6565
Email: seniors@gov.mb.ca
Website: www.gov.mb.ca/shas

30 • A Guide for the CAREGIVER

RESOURCES AND SUPPORT SERVICES (continued)
HEALTH LINKS – INFO SANTÉ
Health Links – Info Santé is a province-wide service that offers triage
services, health information and referral, and nurse advice to callers
24 hours per day, 7 days per week in over 100 languages. Services
include the following:
• symptom assessment and triage
• referral to the most appropriate level of care
• general health information
• assistance finding health resources in local communities
• information on nutrition from a nutritionist
For more information, contact:
Health Links – Info Santé
Phone: 204-788-8200
Toll Free: 1-888-315-9257

CONTACT COMMUNITY INFORMATION

CONTACT Community Information is a community information
referral service, which refers Manitobans to social services and
programs available through health, educational, cultural and
recreational resources in the province of Manitoba. For more
information, contact:
CONTACT Community Information
Suite 410 – 5 Donald Street South
Winnipeg, MB R3L 2T4
Phone: 204-287-8827
Toll Free: 1-866-266-4636
Email: philip.wolfart@volunteermanitoba.ca
Website: www.contactmb.org

A Guide for the CAREGIVER • 31

RESOURCES AND SUPPORT SERVICES (continued)
A & O: SUPPORT SERVICES FOR OLDER ADULTS
A & O: Support Services for Older Adults is a not-for-profit social
service agency that provides programs and services to older adults
55+ that support and enhance the physical, intellectual, emotional,
social and spiritual lives of older persons. Specialized services are
offered in the following areas:
• Safety & Security: Elder Abuse Prevention Services, Safe Suite,
Seniors Abuse Support Line, Older Victim Services, SafetyAid:
Crime & Falls Prevention for Older Manitobans and This Full House
• Social Inclusion: Senior Centre Without Walls, Friendly Visiting,
Paws with a Cause, Entry Program for Older Adult Immigrants and
Centres/Meal Program
• Counselling Services: information and referral, intake, housing
and legal clinics
A & O: Support Services for Older Adults
200 – 280 Smith Street
Winnipeg, MB R3C 1K2
Phone: 204-956-6440
Toll Free: 1-888-333-3121
Email: info@aosupportservices.ca
Website: www.aosupportservices.ca

32 • A Guide for the CAREGIVER

RESOURCES AND SUPPORT SERVICES (continued)
RUPERT’S LAND CAREGIVER SERVICES
(CAREGIVING WITH CONFIDENCE)
Rupert’s Land Caregiver Services (Caregiving with Confidence)
offers a range of support services for family caregivers of
persons 55+ such as:
• city-wide ‘time-out’ or short-term respite care
• transportation assistance in southwest Winnipeg (area codes R3L,
R3M, R3N, R3P and part of R3T)
• support groups
• information and help in problem-solving
• referral to other community services
• telephone support
• conference for caregivers
• community educational presentations and workshops on
caregiving and aging
• publishing the newsletter The Caregivers Page
For more information, contact:
Rupert’s Land Caregiver Services
(Caregiving with Confidence)
168 Wilton Street
Winnipeg, MB R3M 3C3
Phone: 204-452-9491
Email: rlcs@mts.net
Website: www.rlcaregivers.org

A Guide for the CAREGIVER • 33

RESOURCES AND SUPPORT SERVICES (continued)
MANITOBA CAREGIVER COALITION
The Manitoba Caregiver Coalition is a group of individuals and
organizations that join with caregivers, service providers, policy
makers and other stakeholders to identify and respond to the needs
of caregivers in Manitoba. For more information, contact:
Manitoba Caregiver Coalition
Phone: 204-953-3720
Email: mb.caregivercoalition@yahoo.ca
Website: www.ccc-ccan.ca and www.careaware.ca
SENIORS COMMUNITY RESOURCE COUNCILS (CRC)
CRCs offer a variety of programs such as seniors congregate meal
programs, transportation programs, information, referrals, etc.
For the nearest CRC in your community, call your local regional
health authority or the Seniors Information Line:
Phone: 204-945-6565
Toll Free: 1-800-665-6565
Website: www.gov.mb.ca/shas

34 • A Guide for the CAREGIVER

REGIONAL HEALTH AUTHORITY (RHA)
CONTACT INFORMATION
INTERLAKE-EASTERN RHA
Phone: 204-785-4700
Toll Free: 1-855-347-8500
Email: info@ierha.ca
Website: www.ierha.ca

NORTHERN HEALTH REGION

Website: www.northernhealthregion.ca
Flin Flon Regional Office
Phone: 204-687-1300
Toll Free: 1-888-340-6742
The Pas Regional Office
Phone: 204-627-6800
Toll Free: 1-888-340-6742
Thompson Regional Office
Phone: 204-677-5350
Toll Free: 1-877-677-5353
PRAIRIE MOUNTAIN HEALTH
Email: pmh@pmh-mb.ca
Website: prairiemountainhealth.ca
Brandon
Phone: 204-578-2325
Souris
Phone: 204-483-5000
Toll Free: 1-888-682-2253
Dauphin
Phone: 204-638-2118
Toll Free: 1-800-259-7541
A Guide for the CAREGIVER • 35
REGIONAL HEALTH AUTHORITY (RHA)
CONTACT INFORMATION (continued)

SOUTHERN HEALTH-SANTÉ SUD

Email: info@southernhealth.ca
Website: www.southernhealth.ca
Southport Regional Office
Phone: 204-428-2720
Toll Free: 1-800-742-6509
La Broquerie Regional Office
Phone: 204-424-5880
Toll Free: 1-800-742-6509
Morden Regional Office
Phone: 204-822-2650
Toll Free: 1-800-742-6509

Notre Dame de Lourdes Regional Office

Phone: 204-248-7250
Toll Free: 1-800-742-6509

WINNIPEG REGIONAL HEALTH AUTHORITY

(Including Churchill)
Email: info@wrha.mb.ca
Website: www. wrha.mb.ca

Head Office
Phone: 204-926-7000
Home Care Central Intake:
Phone: 204-788-8330
Churchill Health Centre:
Phone: 204-675-8881

36 • A Guide for the CAREGIVER

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
How do I know when my family member can no longer
live safely at home?
The person you are caring for may resist change. It helps to respect
and recognize that these changes may be tough for the care
receiver. Start slowly and involve him/her in any discussions and
decisions. Listen, without judging, and reassure him/her that any
new services will make them safer.
What is respite care?
Respite care refers to the services provided to caregivers so they
can take a break from caregiving responsibilities. Respite care
can be offered through formal organizations or through the care
receiver’s short-term placement in a personal care home while the
caregiver takes a break.
Respite care should be used regularly, so you can become more
familiar with the respite staff and confident in the care provided.
Then, you can relax and enjoy your break, knowing you can trust the
respite worker to provide good care while you are away.
We’ve been told that my husband has dementia. He’s forgetful
and his personality has changed. How can I cope with the
changes in his behaviour that I find so irritating?
Caring for a family member suffering from this kind of chronic
confusion can be particularly heartbreaking and stressful. Knowing
about the behavioural changes associated with dementia can often
help caregivers cope more easily.

A Guide for the CAREGIVER • 37

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (continued)
These changes may include:
• repeating questions and conversations
• losing and hiding things
• belligerence or unwillingness to co-operate
• pacing
• aimless wandering, even outside
• following, or staying close to others
• yelling, swearing, frowning or scowling
• starting but not completing tasks (ex: getting dressed)
• chronic complaining
• repeatedly retelling stories from the past
It’s important to remember that these behaviours are part of the
disease. They are just as upsetting to the individual as they may
be to you. The Alzheimer Society of Manitoba can help you learn all
you can about dementia, what you can expect and tips to help you
cope. Check the Manitoba Seniors’ Guide and Caregiver Inventory
for contact information.
Where can I get help?
Ask for help and keep an open mind about what services and
organizations can help. Listen to the suggestions of the person in
your care. There is a list of caregiver supports and services in the
resource section of this guide.
How can I be a good caregiver and also take care of myself?
Take time for yourself. Regular breaks allow you to cope with
the stress and responsibilities of caregiving. The breaks will help
you cope better with the stress of caregiving, so you can provide
better care.

38 • A Guide for the CAREGIVER

THE CAREGIVER RECOGNITION ACT
In 2011, the Manitoba government made an important first step
toward recognizing the valuable contributions of informal
caregivers by developing The Caregiver Recognition Act. The act
acknowledges the vital role of caregivers. It sets out principles and
actions for government and non-government agencies to follow to
support the health and well-being of caregivers.
The general principles relating to caregivers in the act include:
1. The relationship between caregivers and the persons for whom
they care should be recognized and respected.
2. The valuable social and economic contribution that caregivers
make to society should be recognized and supported.
3. Caregivers should be acknowledged as individuals with their
own needs, within and beyond the caring role.
4. Caregivers should be supported to enjoy optimum health and social
well-being and to participate in family, social and community life.
5. Caregivers should be considered important contributors with other
care providers in the provision of care, support or assistance,
acknowledging the unique knowledge and experience of caregivers.
6. Caregivers should be treated with dignity and respect.
7. Caregivers should be supported to achieve greater economic
well-being and sustainability and, where appropriate, should
have opportunities to participate in employment and education.
8. Support for caregivers should be timely, responsive, appropriate
and accessible.
For more information on the Act, please contact the Seniors and
Healthy Aging Secretariat at 204-945-2127 in Winnipeg; toll-free
1-800-665-6565 in Manitoba or visit www.gov.mb.ca/shas.

A Guide for the CAREGIVER • 39

(Revised October 2016)