Caring for our carers
There are 2.65 million carers in Australia, according to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, which equates to roughly every one in 11 people. So chances are, if you are not looking after someone who needs help with day-to-day living yourself, you know someone who is.
To say carers are special is surely an understatement – the selflessness and care these people exhibit on a daily basis is to be admired. However, it can take its toll.
As defined by Carers Australia, these people provide unpaid care and support to family members or friends who need it – whether that be because of disability, mental illness, age, alcohol or drug abuse, a chronic condition or terminal illness.
In a 2018 survey, the Australian Bureau of Statistics discovered:
● 1 in 3 carers are the primary carer, meaning they are the main person providing care to that individual
● 1 in 3 primary carers are looking after their partner, while 1 in 4 care for their child. 1 in 4 are caring for a parent
● Women aged between 55 and 64 years are most likely to have a caring role, and women are more likely to be a carer than men in general
● At least 1 in 10 carers are aged 25 years or younger
● 43% are not in paid employment or looking for work, and 1 in 3 carers receive a Centrelink payment as their main source of income
In addition, the more hours of care the person provides, the less likely they are to participate in social activities away from home.
Between this and the emotional load of caring for a loved one, it is of utmost importance that a carer takes some time out for themselves every once in a while: becoming a carer of themselves, if you will.
It can be difficult to arrange time away from your loved one, but it is in both of your best interests to do so. If you look after yourself mentally and emotionally as well as physically, you will have a “full cup” from which to pour into your role as carer.
If you are not a carer yourself and know someone who is, encourage them to take some time for themselves – whether you offer to look after their loved one while they go out for a cuppa by themselves or whether you simply suggest they book in some “me time” out of the house.
Self-care doesn’t have to be complex or expensive, so here we’ve compiled some suggestions to get you started:
● Make time for some exercise each day, or book in a weekly aerobics class with friends
● Eat a balanced diet
● Ensure you get enough sleep
● Keep in touch with friends, even if it’s a weekly text exchange
● Participate in Couch Choir or another virtual group activity
● Grab a takeaway coffee and spend 20 minutes in a park or garden
● Do something silly, watch a comedy, or make time to see a friend who always makes you laugh
● Start keeping a journal
● Listen to an inspirational podcast The friendly team at Hooper Centre Pharmacy can help you with your self-care and requirements in your role as carer, from prescription medication and health to a pamper item or beauty session.
They understand your experience and appreciate your care for your loved one. Mention HCPCARE during the month of July when you shop to receive 10% off (exclusions apply). Visit the team in the Hooper Centre, 187 Hume St, Toowoomba City, or call on 07 4638 2210.