Being a carer is hard. The focus is often on the needs of the person receiving the care, not the caregiver. Being a carer may mean you are on call 24/7 for months or years on end.
It is exhausting and often can take a toll on your mental and physical health. As a caregiver, it is important to consider your own needs and health, and to access support and respite care regularly. Remember you need to look after yourself first so that you may be of service to others.
‘Be there for others, but never leave yourself behind’ – Dodinsky.
It is important to access respite care as an early intervention. This may be informal arrangements provided by family or friends, or formal services provided by external agencies such as Carers WA, Silver Chain, Cancer Council or the Commonwealth home support program.
Arranging respite care early is important as it may take a while to put things in place, and it also allows an opportunity for everyone involved to become familiar and comfortable with the process before the carer is feeling overwhelmed.
Respite care can be provided in many ways by several services. Respite may include a few hours a week, a few days a month, or a few weeks to allow the carer to have a proper break.
Respite service can be provided in-home, at day centres, overnight or at hospice care according to your needs. You can start the conversation with your GP or Oncology team, social worker or carers gateway. Remember that there may be a time lag between asking for help and having something in place.
If you are having difficulty raising the issue, our MADDA Support Network Coordinator may be able to help guide you through the process. Don’t wait until you are on your knees before asking for help.
Website designed by c4 Digital Agency
