MARKHAM ONTARIO, October 5th, 2009 – A popular program that assists caregivers to more effectively manage the home care needs of their loved ones is being made available to local families, through the Ministry of Health and Long Term Care’s Aging at Home Strategy and the Saint Elizabeth Health Care Foundation. The Caregiver Support Program, which was developed by the Saint Elizabeth Health Care Foundation will be delivered through ElderSafe Support Services.

Since developing and launching the Caregiver Support Program in 2002, the Saint Elizabeth Health Care Foundation has provided more than 38,000 hours of charitable respite care free of charge to families in need. Caregivers rate the program very highly: 92% are satisfied with the overall program; 96% indicate that the services make a difference in their quality of life; and, 92% agree the program meets their requested needs.

“Canada is experiencing a serious eldercare crunch, which is putting caregivers under tremendous strain and taking a toll on the physical, emotional and financial health of families” says Dr. Joan Lesmond Executive Director of the Foundation.

Over three million Canadians are now caring for an elderly, chronically ill or dying relative at home. According to the Canadian Health Consumer Survey (2009), the average caregiver spent 20 hours a week caring for four years, with 25 per cent of caregivers spending 40 hours a week. One in four caregivers has no help; one in four has paid help; and 61 per cent need more help.

On behalf of the Foundation, ElderSafe will provide essential care, training and support free of charge to overburdened family caregivers. This program will augment the full range of services ElderSafe currently offers to individuals who choose to age in their homes comfortably and confidently.

“With the addition of this program, ElderSafe’s services are now geared to not only assist older adults to be as healthy and independent as possible, but also to support caregivers to take a break from their duties as needed” said Senior Vice President Neil Barran.

To learn more about the program or apply for service, call 1-877-625-5567.

ABOUT SAINT ELIZABETH HEALTH CARE FOUNDATION
To help lead community health care into the 21st century, Saint Elizabeth Health Care Foundation is dedicated to raising funds for the advancement of knowledge and charitable initiatives in home and community care. We are especially interested in funding and promoting programs that assist individuals and families in maximizing their health and quality of life. The Foundation received the Outstanding Philanthropist Award from the Ontario Palliative Care Association in 2000 and again in 2009, in recognition of its record of exceptional generosity of financial support, outstanding civic and philanthropic leadership in the true spirit of hospice palliative care in Ontario. For more information, visit www.saintelizabeth.com.

ABOUT ELDERSAFE SUPPORT SERVICES
ElderSafe Support Services, a division of Saint Elizabeth Health Care, has been providing the highest quality non-medical home health care and support to Canada’s growing seniors’ population since 1995. With locations in British Columbia and Ontario, ElderSafe offers a full range of customized elder care services including personal care, companionship, housekeeping, post-surgery care, dementia and Alzheimer care, respite care, palliative care, 24 hour assistance, light meal preparation and transportation services. ElderSafe, a not-for-profit charitable organization, provides the caring touch that you would expect from a friend or family member. For more information, visit www.eldersafe.com

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For more information, please contact:
Janet Sirianni
Business Development Consultant
jsirianni@saintelizabeth.com
416-886-8194