Prolonged Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on the Well-being and Roles of Family/Friend Caregivers of Older Adults Living at Home in Canadian Official Language Minority or Majority Communities

BACKGROUND: Studies conducted during the COVID-19 pandemic highlighted that confinement reduced access to services and increased caregivers' responsibilities and isolation. OBJECTIVES: This study examines the longer-term impacts among 83 unpaid caregivers of older adults from four Canadian provinces. METHODS: Participants completed an online questionnaire between October 2021 and February 2022, and again 6 months later, on the assistance provided, support received, language of services, and psychological well-being. Additionally, eight caregivers participated in a qualitative interview. FINDINGS: Most home support services were maintained during the pandemic - some with restricted staffing - except for respite and transportation services. Caregivers increased their assistance during the lockdowns, and this higher involvement persisted in 2022. They perceived a negative impact of the pandemic on their health and that of the care recipient. Participants from official language minority communities described additional challenges accessing services in their preferred language. DISCUSSION: Greater recognition of caregivers' needs will help support their role as partners within health organizations.