Providing physical and emotional care for a person when they are seriously ill is demanding. Many people who take on the family carer role find it satisfying, while others may find it very challenging.
It can be a physical and emotional strain to run a household - to shop, cook and clean while also caring for someone who is seriously ill. It is easy to feel tired and overwhelmed. Talk to a health professional about respite services that can be tailored to suit each individual’s needs.
Remember that family members and friends, including neighbours, often want to help. People sometimes develop a support system of family and friends to help them cope while they are caring. Family and friends can assist with the shopping, laundry, housework or the garden. Some services can be paid for or subsidised by local councils. Some palliative care services have volunteers who can help.
It is important to ask health professionals for advice. This could be about:
- How to physically care for someone who is very ill
- How to balance the family carer role with other responsibilities
- How to maintain a social life
- How to keep physically and emotionally well.
Resources
Related CareSearch pages
Family carer role
Looking after yourself
Respite
Social support
Continuing to work
Making decisions
Practical caring resources
Practical information and resources
This page was created on 26 May 2009 and is due for review in May 2011
Last updated 11 June 2009