Medical advancements and increased quality of life are helping people with Down syndrome live longer.
As many will now outlive their parents, more siblings than ever are choosing to become caregivers.
But they canโt do it alone.
Sometimes referred to as “forgotten caregivers”, sibling caregivers lack access to the networks and resources they need to confidently step into their new role.
Your support will help us fill the resource gap and support a new generation of caregivers.
Sibling Caregivers Can’t Do it Alone
Canada’s aging population and the increased life expectancy of Canadians with Down syndrome are creating a growing urgency. We cannot expect sibling caregivers to take on this responsibility alone. Caregivers already contribute immensely, alleviating billions of dollars from our healthcare system annually.
We need to develop the programs and networks that the next generation of caregivers need to give Canadians with Down syndrome proper support and the chance to thrive in their adult and senior years.
80%
of adults with intellectual disabilities rely on their families as their main source of support.
Canada Housing and Mortgage Corporation
$5.7 Billion
unpaid hours are spent caregiving every year in Canada.
The Canadian Centre for Caregiving Excellence
50%
of Canadians will be a caregiver at some point in their lives.
Rexall Care Network
Parents can only donate their experience.
For everything else sibling caregivers need you.
Parents are sharing their care instructions for their children who will one day become sibling caregivers.
Show your support for sibling caregivers by sharing your own Care Instructions on social media with #CDSSCareInstructions.
Share Your Care Instructions
Add your own care instructions to our community collection and help sibling caregivers as they prepare to take on their new role and responsibilities.ย