Caring for a loved one with a disability is an act of deep love and commitment. But for many families in Calgary, it can also be a journey filled with emotional, physical, and financial challenges. Whether you’re providing care for a child with developmental delays, an adult with mobility limitations, or an aging parent who has become dependent due to chronic illness or injury, the experience can feel overwhelming—especially when trying to manage everything alone.
At Truly Home Care Services, we understand the day-to-day realities families face. Based on our work with clients across Calgary, here are the top five challenges families commonly encounter—and some practical strategies to help lighten the load.
1. Emotional Burnout and Caregiver Fatigue
Providing continuous care can lead to caregiver burnout—a state of physical, emotional, and mental exhaustion. Many family caregivers feel isolated, stressed, or even guilty for experiencing frustration or sadness.
Signs of caregiver burnout may include:
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Feeling constantly overwhelmed
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Changes in appetite or sleep
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Lack of interest in hobbies
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Withdrawing from social interactions
In Calgary’s busy urban pace, balancing work, caregiving, and other responsibilities can take its toll. That’s why respite care is so essential. Services like ours at Truly Home Care provide short-term relief so family caregivers can rest, recharge, and return to caregiving with renewed energy.
Pro tip: Don’t wait until you’re burned out—schedule regular breaks, even if it’s just a few hours a week.
2. Lack of Access to Information and Resources
Many families are unaware of the full range of disability services available in Calgary. Between navigating Alberta Health Services (AHS), private providers, and government-funded support programs, finding accurate information can feel like a maze.
Questions like:
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“Is my loved one eligible for home care funding?”
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“Where can I find physical therapy or speech-language services?”
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“Are personal care aides covered by insurance?”
These are common—and they can delay access to vital services.
At Truly Home Care Services, we guide families through the process. Whether it’s understanding disability benefits, scheduling occupational therapy, or accessing mobility aids, we help you navigate the system without added stress.
Pro tip: Ask care providers if they offer care coordination to help manage appointments, paperwork, and assessments.
3. Balancing Work, Life, and Caregiving
Many caregivers are also full-time employees or parents themselves. Trying to juggle work responsibilities with caregiving duties can be extremely difficult. Missed workdays, reduced hours, or career sacrifices are common—and can result in long-term financial strain.
Families often share stories like:
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“I had to cut back my hours to take my brother to therapy.”
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“My employer is supportive, but I’m constantly worried about missing meetings.”
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“I feel like I’m failing at everything—work, home, and caregiving.”
You are not alone.
Home care providers in Calgary, like Truly Home Care Services, can offer customized care schedules to fit your routine. Whether you need a few hours of support during your workday or consistent overnight care, our flexible options are designed to reduce your burden and support your well-being.
Pro tip: Explore federal benefits such as Canada’s Compassionate Care Benefit and talk to your employer about caregiver accommodations.
4. Financial Stress and the Cost of Ongoing Care
Disability care often involves out-of-pocket expenses—equipment, home modifications, transportation, personal care aides, or medical appointments. For some families, these costs become a major source of anxiety, especially if income is reduced due to caregiving demands.
Even when public programs offer support, families may still need to cover:
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Private care services
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Home accessibility upgrades
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Adaptive devices or therapy
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Specialized transportation
Truly Home Care Services offers competitive pricing and helps families access funding resources, including Alberta Blue Cross, AHS-approved programs, and charitable grants when possible.
Pro tip: Ask your care provider for a breakdown of all costs upfront and inquire about sliding scale fees or funding partnerships.
5. Loss of Independence—For Both the Individual and the Caregiver
When a family member becomes disabled, everyone’s sense of independence is impacted. The person receiving care may struggle with a loss of autonomy or feel like a burden, while caregivers often give up personal time, social outings, or even travel plans to fulfill their caregiving role.
This can lead to:
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Depression or anxiety in the individual receiving care
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Strained family relationships
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Increased dependence, even when it’s avoidable
At Truly Home Care, our approach focuses on preserving independence and dignity. Our caregivers are trained to encourage clients to participate in daily activities to the extent possible—whether it’s dressing, grooming, preparing meals, or going for a walk. Even small acts of independence make a big difference in self-esteem.
Pro tip: Encourage loved ones to maintain routines, make decisions, and engage in social or recreational activities—even if support is needed.
You Don’t Have to Do This Alone
Every family’s caregiving journey is unique, but the challenges often feel the same. At Truly Home Care Services, we provide compassionate, professional disability home care to families across Calgary. Whether your loved one needs help with daily living tasks, mobility support, personal hygiene, or companionship, our team is here to help—so you can focus on being a family again.
Let’s Talk About Your Needs
If you’re navigating the challenges of caregiving and don’t know where to start, we invite you to reach out for a free consultation. We’ll take the time to understand your situation and tailor a care plan that works for you and your loved one.
