Click here to register for the event

Unpaid caregivers, the family and friends caring for people at home, are the backbone of the health care system. The COVID-19 pandemic has been a particularly challenging and isolating time for them, as many of the programs and services they rely on are not available. As a home care organization, VHA Home HealthCare (VHA) has seen first-hand the hard work and challenges of these amazing caregivers. They do so much and yet receive so little support and recognition. For over 15 years, VHA has been trying to change this by shining a light on their challenges and providing a little support and celebration through the Heart of Home Care Awards.

On Tuesday, April 6, 2021, National Caregiver Day in Canada, VHA will host a free virtual event specially designed for unpaid caregivers. The programming for the event will  equip caregivers with tools to support themselves and their loved ones and prevent caregiver burnout, all within one hour as we know their time is limited.

The programming includes:

Participate in the Stretch, Lift, Tap program! Learn some practical ways to add more movement to activities of daily living. This program is developed for older adults living with mobility restrictions who are unable to join mainstream exercise programs.

Provided by the Regional Geriatric Program of Toronto.

You spend so much time and energy looking after others’ needs, but what about you? Join Gillian Forsyth, yoga and iRest teacher, to let go of the roles you play and simply connect with your inner sense of peace and well-being.

Gillian has worked with a wide range of clients including schools, hospitals, treatment centres and corporate offices to support their healing and well-being.

A guided presentation of the Heart in Mind activation therapy toolkit, a free guide to engaging loved ones with dementia with feelings-based activities.

Provided by VHA physiotherapist and Heart in Mind co-creator, Brandi D’Souza.

The winners of this year’s Heart of Home Care Awards in three categories will also be announced with special heartwarming tribute videos to share their stories. The award categories are:

• Caring and Giving Back: This caregiver isn’t just an amazing support for their loved one, they are also sharing their knowledge of their journey to help inform and guide others who may face similar challenges.
• Young Caregiver: This award recognizes the extraordinary efforts of a friend or family member who is under 25 years of age.
• Caring with Compassion: The award recognizes the extraordinary efforts of a friend or family member who has gone above and beyond in providing support needed to live at home with more independence..

We hope you will join us for these enjoyable and educational sessions and to hear the heart-warming stories of our Heart of Home Care winners.

The event is free but registration is required. There will be a cash prize draw for registered attendees who are unpaid caregivers.

For further information, please contact communications@vha.ca.

Presenting sponsors: Teak Printing and PACE Consulting

Education sponsor: Manulife