General Health The Care Factor Who’s caring for the carers? Story by Jason Oxenbridge They come from all walks of life - a multicultural altruism that also transcends religions. Some are aged just 10, while others are nearing 90. They’re spouses, parents, sons and daughters, siblings, friends, nieces, nephews and neighbours. They may care for a frail-aged person, someone with a disability, chronic or mental illness, or someone recovering from an illness or accident. More than 2.6 million Australians put their own needs second to provide care and support for family members, friends and those less fortunate, but at what cost? The big benevolent white elephant in the room looms as debate continues over carer support. Whilst rewarding, the demands and negative impacts on carers can be harsh. The responsibility can be thrust upon them in an instant. Sometimes it happens gradually - helping more as a person’s health and independence deteriorates over time. It can also happen suddenly - after a health crisis like a stroke or heart attack or an accident. It’s common for carers to feel they don’t have a choice. Even in large families the responsibility of providing care is often left to one person rather than being shared. That can mean 24-hour aid to a family member with high care needs and might include feeding, bathing, dressing, toileting, lifting and moving, and administering medications. Others care for people who are more independent but may need someone to keep an eye on them or help with tasks such as banking, transport, shopping and housework. According to Carers Victoria, society relies too heavily on the care provided by caring families. The organisation advocates for practical reforms that will help protect carers from the problems too often associated with caring. Caring can be very demanding and often restricts the lives of individual carers and their families. Pindara Magazine 50 Autumn - Winter | 2014
Pindara Private Hospital Magazine - Issue Two
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