Carers Link Hyndburn and Ribble Valley Registered Charity No 1088904

Home History / Meet the Staff Adult Carers Support Young Carers Support Carers Health Carers Forums Trips and Events Free Courses Free Therapy Support Groups Time for Me Newsletter Short Breaks Carers Assessments Factsheets Annual Review Professionals Related Sites Donations Vacancies Contact Us

CARERS’ HEALTH AND WELLBEING Caring can often have a major impact on your health and general wellbeing, from backache to stress, worry and depression. Carers can dedicate so much time and effort into caring for someone else that they can neglect or do not realise the effect it can have on their own health. In order for a carer to continue caring for as long as they wish to it is important to be aware of the possible health risks. These can be both physical and emotional. Physical health Providing care and support may affect your physical health in a number of ways. Probably the most commonly known health problems associated with caring are to do with lifting and moving people. This can cause difficulties such as back problems, pulled muscles and can affect blood pressure. If you think you and the person you care for may need more support with moving and handling you can request a home assessment from an occupational therapist (OT), who will see if any equipment or adaptations can be put in place to reduce your caring responsibilities and help the person you are caring for to live as independently as possible. Although physical problems caused by lifting and moving are the most well-known problems associated with caring, being a carer can affect your health in other ways. If you think any aspect of your caring responsibilities is having an impact on your health make sure your GP knows that you are a carer by completing a carer’s yellow card available in all GP practices. Emotional wellbeing Carers often overlook their emotional health as they put so much into caring for someone else that it becomes difficult to think about caring for themselves. Taking regular breaks, where you can recharge your batteries and do something you enjoy, can improve your health and as a result improve the care you provide. Carers Link holds regular events that focus on improving carers’ emotional wellbeing, including activities like Reiki and massage as well as just being able to meet people in a similar position and share your experiences. Our centre also has a fully equipped relaxation room where carers can come to relax and unwind. Telephone us to book your appointment or click here for more information. Useful resources Carers UK Help with health - http://www.carersuk.org/Information/Helpwithhealth Need urgent medical attention? Call the GP out of hours service 08452 26 26 26

© 2008-2010 Hyndburn and Ribble Valley Carers Link