RBC
By Diane Amato
February 19th, 2026
Canada offers a range of financial supports for caregivers that can help with both day-to-day expenses and long-term planning. Knowing what’s available can help you decide what kind of support might make sense for you.
Caring for aging parents or relatives often happens gradually. A little extra help here. A new expense there. Over time, those changes can add up – emotionally, logistically and financially.
Some costs are obvious, like home care or assisted living. Others are easier to miss: transportation, lost work hours, out-of-pocket medical expenses or the long-term impact on your own savings and retirement plans.
Understanding the cost of caring for elderly relatives can help you plan ahead. Because when you have a clearer picture of what care may cost, and what supports are available, you’ll be better positioned to make thoughtful decisions, set realistic expectations and support your loved ones without sacrificing your own financial wellbeing.
