Supporting Caregivers, Enhancing Lives
At Westend Seniors Activity Centre, we care for our seniors holistically, supporting their physical, emotional, and social well-being. We believe in fostering a community that promotes healthy aging and enhances the quality of life for our members. Our mission to promote healthy aging and enhance quality of life aligns perfectly with Caregivers Alberta’s vision of a society that values and supports caregivers.
We’re proud to share resources from Caregivers Alberta, an organization that aligns with our commitment to supporting the well-being of seniors and their caregivers. Like Caregivers Alberta, we recognize the importance of providing valuable information, support, and connections to those who care for our loved ones. By partnering with organizations like Caregivers Alberta, we aim to empower our members and their families with the knowledge and resources they need to thrive.
LATEST NEWS FROM CAREGIVERS ALBERTA
Next COMPASS for the Caregiver Cohort starts February 6
The COMPASS for Caregiver program offers a supportive, interactive online workshop series designed to help caregivers prioritize their own well-being.
We’re now taking registrants for February COMPASS!
Fridays, Feb 6 – Feb 27, 2026 | 9:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
What you’ll learn:
- Feb 6– Being a Caregiver
Understanding your role as a caregiver and assess your strengths, challenges, and overall sense of self. - Feb 13 – Managing Your Stress
Learn how stress can lead to burnout and what you can do to prevent or recover from it. We’ll explore how to shift your mindset and seek balance in caregiving. - Feb 20 – Balancing Relationships
Improve your communication skills to identify what you need, ask for help, and share the care. The hardest lesson as a caregiver is to regain your identity as a whole person by taking care of yourself first. - Feb 27 – Navigating the System
Increase your confidence in accessing services, reflect on your caregiving journey, and plan for the future to avoid the stress associated with uncertainty.
Spots are limited—reserve yours early to be part of this supportive pilot! Hit the button below and join Caregivers Alberta for this energizing and empowering series.
Holiday Visits: A Time to Notice Changes in Loved Ones
The holidays bring families together—and sometimes reveal changes we might not have seen before. While it’s tempting to dismiss these as “just aging,” they could signal emotional, cognitive, or physical challenges. Early recognition and support can make a big difference.
Watch for Signs:
- Shifts in mood or behavior
- Loss of interest in hobbies or social activities
- Resistance to daily routines
- Neglect of personal or home care
- Changes in sleep, appetite, or energy
- Increased distress or emotional outbursts
If these changes interfere with daily life, progress over time, or others notice them too, it’s time to consult a doctor. These signs may point to cognitive decline, vision or hearing loss, mental health concerns like depression or anxiety, or an underlying medical issue. Early evaluation can rule out reversible causes (such as thyroid problems or medication side effects) and allow timely treatment.
What You Can Do:
- Trust your instincts—you know your loved one best.
- Provide Quiet Retreats – set up calm, comfortable areas where your loved one can rest and recharge.
- Document what you observe and ask trusted family or friends if they’ve noticed similar changes.
- Talk to your loved one with care and offer practical support, including help with scheduling medical evaluations.
- Reach out for help—you don’t have to do this alone. Talking to a Caregivers Alberta caregiver coach or connecting with others in a Community Support Community may help you navigate these steps.
Early action helps seniors maintain emotional well-being and live fulfilling lives.
Fueling the Journey – Nutrition & Community Supports for Caregivers
Missed their latest webinar? Don’t worry—you can now stream Fueling the Journey: Nutrition and Community Supports for Caregivers anytime on their YouTube channel!
In this insightful session, they were joined by Suneet Jaswal, a Registered Dietitian and caregiver himself, who shared practical advice on how nutrition impacts mental health, immunity, and overall vitality. Learn about the concept of “hidden hunger,” the risks of malnutrition, and easy ways to nourish yourself without adding stress to your busy caregiving routine.
They were also joined by Christine Hentschel of Calgary Meals on Wheels, who highlighted community programs that make nutritious meals more accessible and affordable for caregivers.
Whether you care for a loved one, support caregivers professionally, or work in the nonprofit sector, this online webinar practical tips, tools, and resources to make healthy eating achievable and sustainable.
CAREGIVERS ALBERTA
Caregivers Alberta provide resources, support and education to help people provide care to family members or friends. Their services are wide-ranging to match the needs of caregivers: from caregiver support line to one-on-one coaching and peer support groups to their award-winning caregiver education program, COMPASS for the Caregiver.
ONE-ON-ONE SUPPORT
The Caregiver Coach provides one-on-one support. You can connect by:
- Phone: 780-453-5088 | 1-877-453-5088 (toll-free)
- Email: su*****@***************ta.ca
ONLINE SUPPORT FOR CAREGIVERS IN ALBERTA
Writers’ Circle:
- Participants will receive a journal prompt, write, and then share their thoughts with one another.
- Bi-weekly on Wednesdays,
- 6:30 to 8:00 p.m. (online)
Compass for the Caregiver:
- This education course is designed to equip caregivers with more skills and strategies for managing stress within their role.
- Session dates and times vary
Caregivers Book Club
- four weeks, three books, great company and conversation!
- Every 2nd Thursday of the month,
- 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. (online)
Men’s Den Caregiver Support Community
- a small group gathering for male caregivers.
- Bi-weekly on Wednesdays,
- 7:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. (online)