The importance of caring for the carer

A survey conducted by the Alzheimer’s Society found that 9 in 10 carers frequently experienced feelings anxiety and stress, whilst 80% said they felt uncomfortable talking about the emotions they felt whilst caring for someone with dementia. Caring for a family member with dementia can take it's toll on a carer’s physical and mental wellbeing. Constantly putting the needs of someone else before yours can lead to a deterioration in both mental and physical health. It is therefore essential that carers receive the support they need in order to continue the fantastic work they do every day in caring for dementia patients.

Looking after yourself is the best way to look after your loved one

Of those surveyed by the Alzheimer’s Society, 60% confessed that they felt guilty when reaching out for support. They saw it as putting their needs first and, according to the most recent GP patient survey, 3 in 5 suffer from long term health problems as a result. It is essential that carers know that their health is just as important as the one they are looking after. If you are the sole carer, your deterioration will have negative repercussions for your ability to provide the best care you can.

It is estimated that roughly 1 in 10 people across the UK are providing unpaid care to either a friend or family member, and the continuing trend of longer life expectancies and an ageing population means that this is predicted to increase. Their tireless contributions saved the economy £132 billion in 2016 – this is practically the same as the entire NHS budget!

According to the Carers UK 2017 report, 42% of carers identified regular breaks as the most effective way of improving their overall health. Here at Allenbrook, we provide respite and day care for any length of time required, providing hardworking carers with the time off they deserve.