A Caregiving Journey

Colleen: A Caregiver's Story

Caregiving can be an overwhelming responsibility, especially for families dealing with conditions like dementia. For Colleen and her family, the assistance of a volunteer named Leslie has made all the difference.

Leslie helped Colleen manage caregiving responsibilities and navigate the system. “Because Leslie is so smart and has gone through the system, she gives me helpful little hints on different things too. Because she's dealt with dementia before and I haven't, she helps navigate that world so much better than by myself.”

Many families, particularly those dealing with chronic conditions or dementia, find that the healthcare system is not always equipped to provide the personalized support they need. For this family, Leslie has been able to offer advice, answer questions, and help them make informed decisions, enabling them to provide the best possible care for Myrna without feeling alone or unsure.

Beyond advice, Leslie’s ability to keep the family informed after each visit has proven essential. She sends text updates to Colleen to ensure everyone stays in the loop. As Colleen points out, this level of clear communication is crucial for caregivers, especially when juggling work and other responsibilities.

Leslie's visits provide emotional support for Myrna and her family and reduce the physical and emotional load on Colleen, allowing her to manage her other responsibilities.

“I can't overstate the impact it has on caregiving families who are overwhelmed; exhausted at their wit's end financially, physically, emotionally to know that Leslie was there and Myrna knew she was safe. It has been a real authentic connection and a positive impact for the family. “

For families overwhelmed by caregiving, Nav-CARE volunteers provide companionship, advocacy, and peace of mind. Volunteers like Leslie embody the compassion and knowledge that can transform a caregiving experience from exhausting and isolating to manageable and supported. Through this program, families like Colleen’s know their loved ones are in good hands—and that they don’t have to face the journey alone.

Leslie: A Volunteer’s Caregiving Journey

Leslie's volunteer journey began after retirement and a conversation with a friend who told her about SCOA. Having cared for both parents and an aunt, she recognized gaps in the healthcare system, especially for people facing major life transitions. This experience inspired Leslie to help others who might feel lost navigating resources and support options.

"People in this circumstance are lost - what to do, what direction to go. When you support individuals to find better choices for themselves, you open up the doors and get more options for them."

Leslie's visits brighten Myrna's day and offer a familiar presence during a challenging time. Leslie comments, "When I arrive, she's always pleased to see me. I feel that I provide a bit of consistency for her. I know her family does the same. I'm paying attention to her, listening to her, laughing with her, and clarifying if she's confused about things."

Leslie made it a point to plan regular outings; whether to Dutch growers, Forestry Farm, or Berry Barn.

"We try to go out and get a breath of fresh air for five or ten minutes to let her realize she is connected. I believe I've always left her feeling better than when I arrived," Leslie notes.

In her volunteer role, Leslie recognizes the importance of family involvement in the healthcare process. "Healthcare needs to integrate family into discussions and decision-making. Knowledge about the care recipient must come from the family and close friends to know what is normal or not normal. They don't get the full picture without integrating with the family."

Through volunteer work with Nav-CARE, Leslie has seen how companionship, consistency, and advocacy affect someone's well-being. Her experience highlights the importance of accessible resources and community support for those in need.

Nav-CARE was developed to meet the needs of persons living at home with chronic illness and declining health.

A Nav-CARE volunteer helps people to identify what is most important to them – their changing quality of life priorities. The Nav-Care program is provided by Saskatoon Council on Aging Caregiver Information and Support Centre.  

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