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.