New online tool will help caregivers help themselves
OTTAWA, March 20, 2018 /CNW/ - When a Canadian serves in Canada's armed forces, their whole family serves with them. That is why the Government of Canada has made it a priority to improve benefits and services for our Veterans and their families as well.
Veterans Affairs Canada, in partnership with Saint Elizabeth Health Care, has developed an innovative e-learning tool that provides instruction, education, videos and tools on a wide range of caregiving topics to family members taking care of Veterans so they can protect, improve and sustain their own health and well-being. This new interactive resource, called Caregiver Zone, also offers an opportunity to connect with other caregivers and access the support of a caregiver coach.
The on-line tool which went through extensive trials with current caregivers, will be live and available in March 2018.
Quotes
"Caregivers play a vitally important role in a Veteran's life. This new online resource will help ensure that informal caregivers have the resources they need both to support their loved ones and to find support for themselves."
The Honourable Seamus O'Regan, Minister of Veterans Affairs and Associate Minister of National Defence
"Families play a crucial role in caring for Veterans, often over many years. Together with Veterans Affairs Canada, we designed this program to provide the specialized knowledge they need and the community support they deserve."
Shirlee Sharkey, CEO of Saint Elizabeth and Elizz.
Quick Facts:
- The online tool is tailored to the unique culture of the military and was developed in collaboration with caregivers of Veterans in Canada, military community members, and Veterans Affairs Canada staff.
- The online tool will help caregivers of ill and injured Veterans learn how to better support themselves and their loved ones as they go through the treatment and recovery process.
- The development of this tool is in response to recommendations to do more for caregivers of Veterans.
- Caregiver Zone is a bilingual resource and free to use.
- The Caregiver Recognition Benefit represents a commitment of $187.3 million over six years to Veterans and their caregivers.
Associated Links
CaregiverZone
SOURCE Veterans Affairs Canada
Media Relations, Veterans Affairs Canada, 613-992-7468, [email protected]; Alex Wellstead, Press Secretary, Office of the Minister of Veterans Affairs, 613-996-4649
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