Patterns of Caring for People with Dementia in Canada (Canadian Study of Health and Aging)
Both the government and the medical community are taking more interest in the phenomenon of caregiving. As the population ages, more and more Canadians will be drawn into this role. Since studies show that most people with dementia live at home cared for by a spouse, relative or friend, we therefore need to know more about the caregiving function in order to provide the best possible support for these caregivers.

"This paper describes patterns of caring for people aged 65 or over with dementia in Canada, and the relationship this has with the well-being of caregivers." The study addresses three questions: who provides day-to-day care for people with dementia? What services do they use to assist them? What is the health status of the caregiver? In each of these questions the study compares people caring for someone with dementia to those caring for someone without dementia, in the community and in institutions.

A few startling conclusions of the study:

• Caregivers in the dementia group were receiving fewer services than caregivers in the non- dementia comparison group; numerous other studies have also shown that caregivers view respite services as a last resort for a variety of reasons, including unfamiliarity, cost (in the U.S.) and philosophical values opposed to using respite care.

• Caring for a person with dementia was associated with chronic health problems among informal caregivers, as well as more depressive symptoms and increased feelings of burden.

The study can be found in The Canadian Journal on Aging CSHA Study 1994 Vol. 13 p.470-487. Reprints can also be obtained from:
Dr. Joan Lindsay
Health Canada
Bureau of Chronic Disease Epidemiology
Room 150, LCDC Building
Tunney's Pasture, Ottawa, On K1A 0L2