What Kunal Parikh Taught Us About Care, Connection, and Change in the Caregiver Space

Caregiving is one of the most universal experiences, and yet, one of the most misunderstood. Whether it’s helping a parent manage medications, navigating a loved one’s transition to a retirement residence, or simply showing up day after day, caregivers are doing essential, often invisible work. We sat down with Kunal Parikh, a gerontologist and passionate advocate for aging populations, to talk about the reality of caregiving in Canada — what’s missing from the conversation, why recognition matters, and how we can better support those carrying the weight of care.

Caregiving Isn’t a Private Issue, It’s a Collective Responsibility

Caregiving is often seen as something personal, quiet, behind closed doors, handled within the family. But as Kunal Parikh reminds us, it’s time to start treating caregiving as a social and systemic issue.

“We fail to really see the implicit parts of caregiving, it is emotional support, mental support, being an advocate and social support." Caregiving is so deeply woven into everyday life that it often goes unrecognized, even by caregivers themselves.

This lack of recognition trickles into policy, funding, and workplace support. Without visibility, there’s no urgency to build infrastructure around it.

Caregiving Doesn't Stop at the Front Door

One of the most harmful myths, according to Kunal, is that "caregiving stops when the person you're caring for transitions to a retirement home ... I would argue that assumption sets back self-efficacy." In reality, new challenges emerge medical, emotional, logistical, and caregivers need to re-establish their role and confidence in a new environment.

This misunderstanding often leads to feelings of guilt or helplessness just when caregivers need support the most.

Supporting the Supporters

So how can our healthcare systems and our communities do better?

Kunal emphasizes a multi-tiered approach:

Federal level: Tax credits, paid leave, and incentives for employers to recognize caregivers in the workplace.

Provincial level: Peer support programs, caregiver education and training, systemic respite care, and clearer integration into healthcare plans.

Municipal level: Community health centres that offer localized support and respite options.

Some steps are already underway. For example, Ontario’s introduction of caregiver ID badges gives families a voice in hospital care planning. But as Kunal points out, implementation is uneven and sometimes met with resistance from overburdened staff.

The Caregiver to the Caregiver

Support doesn’t always need to come from institutions. Kunal takes a page out of Lauren Rogan's book and encourages friends of caregivers to take an active role in their friends' lives.

“Essentially, if you have friends who you know are actively caregiving and spread thin you [should] become the caregiver to the caregiver ... Don't ask 'let me know if I can help', [instead] send a home cooked meal."

This more examples could be running an errand, or simply listening, small actions that help lighten a very real emotional load.

Why Kunal Is Optimistic

Despite the challenges, Kunal sees signs of progress. More conversations are happening politically, publicly, and personally. Caregiving is becoming less taboo and less of an apolitical issue.

“We’re getting better at talking about it ... the more we talk about caregiving the more we destigmatize it and the more normal it becomes. Increasingly, caregivving is being discussed in political spheres, caregving policies are part of political campaigns and that's eexactly the direction that we should be going on."

It’s a long road, but it starts with stories and awareness.

Start with Recognition. Continue with Action.

Whether you’re a caregiver yourself or know someone who is, the first step is recognizing the vital role caregivers play emotionally, physically, and socially. Start with real conversations. Ask what they need, offer specific help, and explore the resources available in your community. And when you’re ready, lean on professionals and advocates who understand that caregiving isn’t just a duty, it’s a shared responsibility that deserves recognition, support, and compassion.

CLICK HERE to connect with Kunal Parikh on Linkedin and learn more