Family members are carrying the majority of the burden when it comes to caring for Waterloo region’s aging population, says a prominent home care researcher.

John Hirdes, the Ontario home care research chair and a professor at the University of Waterloo, says family members take on about three-quarters of home care needs, covering a large variety of tasks.

“They need help with bathing, meal preparation, transferring in and out of chairs, or such. They may need help with toileting, with tasks like getting around in the community, maintaining their home,” said Hirdes in an interview with Craig Norris on The Morning Edition Wednesday.

But that burden can be emotionally and physically draining for the carers.

Hirdes says family members providing care need to be supported through programs including social services and mental health counselling.

If your family needs assistance with care at home for your loved one, contact Guardian Network today.

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