For many, the choice of whether to become a carer is taken out of their hands; what’s more, many don’t get the support they need.
What is an unpaid carer?
An unpaid carer is anybody who provides regular care to a friend, relative, or neighbour who is no longer able to look after themself. This might be doing their shopping, cooking for them, helping with house chores, and assisting with daily hygiene.
Why do people become unpaid carers
Unpaid carers usually end up in this position because there is no other accessible alternative; for example, many people can ill afford to pay nursing home fees and their loved ones step in. Others may not need 24/7 care yet but may not know how to receive additional support. Furthermore, the process of being assessed for care needs can be long.
Undeniably, the biggest reason that people become unpaid carers is through love and kindness, wanting to do whatever they can to make life a little easier, Understandably, many unpaid carers also want to spend time with their loved one, as they might fear that they are in the latter stages of life.
What are the challenges that unpaid carers face?
Unpaid carers face numerous challenges, such as the fact that they may not be qualified nurses and therefore may not be best placed to care for the vulnerable. In addition to not having the required skill set, they may find that they don’t have the patience needed to deal with difficult situations. They may also have to give up work.
If you feel like you are not up to the role, people who have jobs in home care services through companies such as www.caremark.ie/job-opportunities/care-assistant-job-opportunities/ can help take the burden off families while home living is still possible.
Another obstacle unpaid carers may face is loneliness. Being a full-time carer often means not socialising or even leaving the house, which can lead to mental health complications such as depression.
Last but not least, it can be heart-wrenching to watch a loved one age and deteriorate.