You may need to be at your loved one’s side every day. In some cases, you may need to help him or her make some tough decisions. You may even hold a legal Power of Attorney.

But for many working Canadians, it can be hard to take time off from work — especially without pay. And if your spouse is ill and can’t work, it can be hard to pay the bills alone.

Make sure you have a plan and know where to get help. For instance, more than 5,600 working Canadians got help through the government’s Compassionate Care Program in 2006–2007 alone. Use these resources to learn more.