A family carer is someone who takes on the responsibility of looking after someone who is ill. This caring role may take on many forms and could be undertaken by people who would not necessarily think of him or herself as a ‘carer’, for example, a friend, neighbour, extended family, spouse, sibling, child or parent. This role may not be something that the person thought they would ever have to take on. Some people will take it on willingly, for others it will be more an obligation. Other people just can’t do it at all.
There are different expectations of someone who is a family carer. For example:
- The expectations of health professionals and / or family that this person will in fact take on the role
- The family carer’s own expectations of what they can and cannot manage
- The expectations of the person who is ill.
Being a family carer may not be the only responsibility that this person has. They may have obligations to work or to other family members or they may have young children. Family carers may have their own health related issues.
Sometimes people who cannot take on the full-time role of family carer can contribute in a small way, or choose in what ways they are able to help.
Resources
- The Carers UK website has a helpful guide for those who are new to caring.
Related CareSearch pages
Family carer need for information
Family carer role
Managing daily life
Looking after yourself
Respite
Social support
Practical caring resources
This page was created on 26 May 2009 and is due for review in May 2011
Last updated 11 June 2009