Volume 30 | JUNE 2022
Pride and Indigenous History Month 
The caregiving experience is unique to each individual. For caregivers in the 2SLGBTQ+ and indigenous communities, research has shown that there are additional challenges. 2SLGBTQ+ caregivers face different barriers to accessing care, including stigma and prejudice. Indigenous caregivers have unique needs that are not always met by the healthcare system, or which are impacted by health disparities related to the legacy of intergenerational trauma and centuries of colonization. As a result, Indigenous communities struggle with disproportionately high rates of suicide, diabetes, mental health & substance use challenges.

The OCO recognizes the importance of understanding unique circumstantial influences impacting caregivers in these communities and has compiled a list of resources that may help. 
New: Peer Support Group 
The OCO is inspired by caregivers, developing, and evolving its programs and services based on their needs. OCO’s Peer Support program is created by caregivers, for caregivers. The support groups are facilitated by trained volunteers who were or currently are caregivers and provide a safe space for caregivers to connect and share their own experience related to their role. Groups are available in both English and French.

If you or someone you know could benefit from peer support, please register today. 
New: Caregiver Voices
The work of the OCO is inspired by caregivers and its resources and programs are all designed in collaboration with them. This month, the OCO is introducing a new online platform to support its caregiver advisory panel - Caregiver Voices. This new tool allows caregivers to share their lived experiences to help inform the work of the OCO.  

As members of the panel, caregivers are asked to provide input on different ideas, tools and programs, answer surveys on different aspects of the caregiving experience, and provide insights to guide the development of caregiver-focused services, webinars and more. 
 
Join the Caregiver Voices community. Your contribution can make a difference to the four million caregivers who need support. 
Working Caregivers
The OCO is working with employers in Ontario to create caregiver friendly cultures in their workplace. In Ontario, there are an estimated 4 million caregivers and 69% of them work. OCO’s Spotlight Report show that 30% are considering quitting their job to provide better care to their family member or friend and 50% wish for more support from their employer.

In response, the OCO created resources dedicated to working caregivers. You can find toolkits for both caregivers and employers that provide helpful tips and strategies that may help you find balance in your life.
Meet Shane
Caregiving can be challenging. There are many highs and lows and everyone’s experience is unique. What is important to remember regardless of where you are in your journey, is that you are not alone. Shane shares his personal experience caring for his aging parents. Read more about what Shane has learned as a caregiver and the many blessings he has experienced along the way.
 
“Even though the challenges of caregiving can appear insurmountable at times, the rewards are tremendous. I will never forget the sense of accomplishment and heart-warming satisfaction we all felt when my parents were finally reunited and able to live together once again.”
 
To read more about his story visit the link below.
Save The Date!
June 8: After Stroke for Caregivers: Finding a Path Forward
July 21: Discover the Healing Power of Journal Writing
Missed a webinar?
We know caregivers are busy. That's why we record webinars so that you can watch them after the event, at a time that's convenient for you. 
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