Caring for a loved one living with dementia can be a fulfilling, and equally challenging experience. The emotional and physical toll on care partners can be overwhelming and significant – often leading to isolation, burnout, and a diminished ability to care for both themselves and the person they are supporting.
In an effort to support these care partners, the Providence Care Community Seniors Mental Health program, in partnership with the Reitman Centre at Sinai Health, has launched the innovative Enhancing Care for Ontario Care Partners program, in southeastern Ontario.
TEACH – Training, Education, and Assistance for Caregiving at Home – is one of the interactive groups for care partners. Providence Care Social Workers Natalie Lintner and Roxanne Lamothe facilitate virtual and in-person programs in Kingston, Picton and Belleville – with TEACH starting in May 2025.
“People who are caring for someone with dementia often put their needs aside and this can lead them to developing physical health issues and mental health struggles such as depression and anxiety,” explains Natalie. “Not only does the care partner benefit from the support they receive in this program, but the person they are caring for does too. This program helps them so much. We provide a safe environment where they feel heard and understood by others who have the same challenges,” she adds.
The program is offered on a self-referral basis, is free of charge and offered both virtually and in-person to partners, spouses, siblings, adult children and other family members and friends who play a role in caregiving for someone with dementia.
“In TEACH, we discuss and provide support for care partners experiences in terms of the challenges of applying self-care, navigating the health care system, coping with the changes to their relationship with the person with dementia and discuss future planning in terms of what needs they have as a care partner, or the person with dementia may need,” says Natalie.
The program is offered in a small group, once a week for four weeks. Care partners receive coaching in practical communication, coping skills and have the opportunity to share and learn from one another.
Natalie explains these sessions are not traditional support groups; they are facilitated by regulated health professionals trained in psychotherapy, offering a space where care partners can discuss their experiences in a safe and supportive environment.
“The care partners who join us often feel isolated, as if no one truly understands what they’re going through,” Natalie shares. “Our groups help them feel heard and understood, which can significantly reduce those feelings of isolation. The group setting allows them to learn from each other and recognize that they are not alone in their struggles.”
With upcoming sessions beginning in May, care partners are encouraged to register and take part in these transformative sessions, which offer more than just practical advice—they provide the emotional and psychological support needed to continue caring for a loved one with strength and resilience.
“There are critical conversations we have within the group that we know make a real difference,” adds Natalie.
Starting in September 2025, the CARERS program – Coaching, Advocacy, Respite, Education, Relationship, Simulation – will launch, offering care partners even more targeted support as they navigate their caregiving journey.
Caregiving goes beyond just handling everyday responsibilities—it involves emotional preparedness and practical assurance. With proper support and with the help of the Enhancing Care for Ontario Care Partners programs, care partners can shift from doubt to confidence, gain clarity on important concerns, and turn challenges into sources of strength.
By providing guidance, resources, and empathy, we support care partners to face their journey with resilience. On this National Caregiver Day, we honor the selfless dedication of care partners and encourage you to take a moment for self-care—because your well-being is just as important as the care you provide.
For more information on how to register and learn about upcoming sessions, visit our website. New group session dates will be added on a continuing basis.
Questions? Email carers@providencecare.ca or phone 613-544-4900 ext. 37184 or 1-800-785-1707 ext. 37184.
