SOS&C Caregivers' Blog is available to share helpful information to support those caring for loved ones.
SOS&Cケアギバーの会ブログページ
情報交換と大切な方の支援にお役立てください。
The hot summer has ended, and we feel the change in season with cooler mornings.
The support group conversation began with a reminder to be careful, as many people tend to fall ill during seasonal transitions.
Ms. A is worried about her mother, who lives in Japan and hardly goes out or moves around much. While she still lives alone, as she ages, there is a concern that her cognitive functions might decline or she might suddenly fall ill.
Other participants shared experiences of their parents in Japan falling ill or passing away and how it helped that their parents had written down important information in an "ending note" in advance. Another participant, who is familiar with the caregiving situation in Japan, explained the importance of connecting with community support centers and care managers. Ms. A is now considering going back to Japan to have a concrete conversation with her mother about the future.
This discussion naturally shifted to the participants' own preparations for the future, realizing that they, too, need to plan ahead while living in Canada.
Ms. B mentioned that the website of an organization called Nidus has a lot of useful information about personal planning in Canada (specifically British Columbia).
The conversation then expanded to include topics such as wills, funerals, and what to do about graves after passing away. Some participants shared that they had already made wills, while others with experience in Canadian funeral and burial customs shared their insights.
In the support group, everyone regularly discusses caregiving and their current situations, exchanging various pieces of information. Each session brings new learning, reaffirming the group's value.
Useful Information:
Ending Note:
In Japan, "ending notes" are sold in bookstores and online. There are various types, including those you can write your personal history or timeline, and others with sections to record your wishes about life-prolonging treatment or matters after death. You can choose one that suits your purpose, and they are easy to start using.
Community Support Centers:
Community support centers are local service windows that offer consultations and support regarding caregiving, medical care, and welfare to ensure the elderly and their families can live with peace of mind. They are set up in various regions and provide free consultations, so they may be helpful in times of need.
Nidus:
Nidus is a non-profit organization in British Columbia that supports family caregivers by helping them prepare legal documents such as "representation agreements" and "powers of attorney" for future care. These documents allow family members to make medical and care decisions on behalf of individuals if they become unable to express their own wishes. Nidus also offers a registry service to securely store these documents.
Nidus Official Website: https://nidus.ca/
Commentaires