Family caregivers provide 75–90% of care in Alberta’s communities and up to 40% in congregate care—yet they remain largely invisible in formal systems. Caregivers often face high emotional, physical, and financial strain while navigating fragmented services without adequate recognition or support.

Family and Community Support Services (FCSS) programs are uniquely positioned to lead a community-based response. With their preventive mandate, local reach, and flexible service models, FCSS can recognize caregiving as essential care work and offer targeted supports that respond to local needs.

This session explores how FCSS programs can strengthen caregiver-inclusive services by identifying caregivers earlier, partnering with healthcare and community organizations, and leveraging existing programming to reduce isolation, stress, and burnout. Using real-world case examples, we’ll share practical, low-cost strategies such as facilitated peer support, flexible respite, and caregiver navigation initiatives.

Participants will also engage in a discussion to share what’s already working, identify gaps, and co-generate ideas to better support caregivers in their own communities. As Alberta’s population ages and care needs increase, supporting family caregivers is not just a health issue—it’s a vital social infrastructure challenge.

FCSS can be at the forefront of innovation, inclusion, and prevention by naming caregiving as care work and ensuring caregivers are seen, valued, and supported.