They’re too young to drive or vote — but they’re caring for their ailing loved ones

Najiha Raman may seem like a typical 17-year-old in many ways, but her life is far from ordinary. Since she was just three years old, she has been caring for her mother, who was diagnosed with ALS when Najiha was only a toddler. From helping her mom with everyday tasks like drinking water and eating food to adjusting her body when she was uncomfortable, Najiha has taken on responsibilities that most kids her age never have to face.

Growing up, Najiha didn’t realize that her caregiving duties were not typical for someone her age. It wasn’t until she got older and spoke with her sister that she understood the magnitude of her responsibilities. Despite her family’s efforts to shield her from some of the tasks, Najiha has always been there for her mom, providing care and support in ways that most teenagers could never imagine.

Najiha is just one of an estimated 1.5 million young Canadians between the ages of 15 and 30 who are caring for loved ones with long-term health problems. However, this number may be even higher as the data is outdated and does not account for caregivers under the age of 15. The pandemic has only exacerbated the situation, with many families facing increased caregiving needs due to a lack of preventative care and support services.

The stresses of caregiving can take a toll on young caregivers, putting them at higher risk of mental health challenges such as depression, anxiety, and social isolation. Despite the growing need for young caregivers, support services are not keeping up with the aging population. As Canada’s population continues to age, more young people will be drawn into providing unpaid care for their loved ones.

Identifying and supporting young caregivers is crucial, but they are often a hidden population who may not even realize the impact of their responsibilities on their mental health and well-being. Primary care teams, like family doctors, can play a key role in identifying and supporting young caregivers, ensuring they have access to the resources and support they need.

Dr. Karen Okrainec, an internal medicine specialist, has developed a toolkit to help healthcare providers identify young caregivers and connect them with resources. By recognizing and supporting young caregivers, we can ensure they receive the care and support they need to thrive while caring for their loved ones.

In countries like the U.K., young caregivers are assessed to ensure their responsibilities do not impact their well-being or school performance. Direct payments are provided to help them hire help or access services, a model that could be beneficial for young caregivers in Canada like Najiha Raman.

Despite the challenges she faces, Najiha remains proud of the care she provides for her mom. She hopes that others will recognize the extraordinary circumstances of her situation and offer support without pitying her or her family. Young caregivers like Najiha deserve to be seen, heard, and supported as they navigate the complexities of caregiving at a young age.