What is caregiving really costing your family — and where's the help in BC?
The Caring in Canada 2026 report found that 49% of caregivers have experienced financial strain, 77% report harm to their well-being, and only 10% of BC caregivers received caregiver-specific support in the past year. Help exists, but most families need a clearer starting point.
The 2026 numbers: caregiving is squeezing family finances
Caring in Canada 2026, published by the Canadian Centre for Caregiving Excellence, draws on responses from more than 2,600 unpaid caregivers and paid care providers. One in four Canadians is currently a caregiver, and half will be at some point.
Almost half of caregivers have experienced financial strain. One in five spends at least $1,000 a month out of pocket. Thirteen percent are working less than full-time because of care duties, and 22% have stopped saving.
More than three-quarters report negative effects on their well-being, especially fatigue, stress, and anxiety. Our guide to paying for senior care in BC explains programs that can reduce some of the cost.
The support gap: help exists, but almost no one gets it
Nationally, only 13% of caregivers received services designed for caregivers in the past year. In BC, the figure is 10%. Among caregivers without support, 40% don't know whether they are eligible, 35% don't know what is available, and 25% don't know where to start.
Respite shows the gap clearly. Seventy-nine percent say respite is important, but only 7% used it in the past year.
The problem usually isn't willingness or love. It is that finding support takes navigation skills nobody hands you when you become a caregiver.
Caring for someone and can't find the support you need?
Most families arrive here because something changed: a hospital discharge, a fall, caregiver burnout, a long publicly funded waitlist, or home no longer feeling safe.
Answer 5 questions and we'll check respite care, adult day programs, home care, and other supports that may give you a break.
Finally know what to do next.
At the end: local options, next steps, and a plan you can email or download.
Who are you helping?
5 questions · Free · No referral fees · No account needed
What caregiver support exists in BC right now
- Caregiver Support Line: 1-877-520-3267. Free and confidential, from Family Caregivers of BC, Monday to Friday.
- Respite through your health authority. Short facility stays cost a subsidized rate of $44.38 a day in 2026. In-home respite may also be available.
- Adult day programs. These provide supervision and activities for the person receiving care, and scheduled time back for the caregiver.
- Better at Home. Community agencies provide non-medical help such as housekeeping, grocery shopping, transportation, and friendly visiting.
- Canada Caregiver Credit. A federal tax credit for people supporting a dependant with an impairment.
- 8-1-1. HealthLink BC provides nurse advice around the clock and can help route families to home and community care.
One call is enough to start. If you're unsure whether what you do counts as caregiving, see our caregiver checklist. If you're running on empty, start with the caregiver burnout guide.
New support is arriving in the Fraser Valley
On July 9, the Fraser Valley Health Care Foundation announced a $300,000 caregiver-support project for Abbotsford, Mission, Chilliwack, Hope, Agassiz, and Harrison Hot Springs.
Planned supports include peer groups, resilience workshops, navigation help, respite, transportation assistance, and culturally responsive support. Details will be published through the foundation.
Sources
Frequently asked questions
Is there financial help for family caregivers in BC?
The Canada Caregiver Credit can reduce federal tax. Public home support, subsidized respite, and adult day programs can also reduce private costs. Family Caregivers of BC can explain available assistance at 1-877-520-3267.
How do I get respite in BC?
Call your health authority's Home and Community Care intake and ask for a caregiver assessment. Respite may be arranged at home, through an adult day program, or as a short facility stay.
Who counts as a family caregiver?
Anyone providing unpaid physical or emotional care to a family member, friend, or neighbour. You do not need to live with the person or use the word caregiver for yourself.
What if caregiving is affecting my health?
Take it seriously. Start with the Caregiver Support Line at 1-877-520-3267 or your doctor. If care needs have grown beyond what one person can manage safely, ask about more support at home or a different care setting.
Ready to make a plan? Start the Navigator
