1.4. Impact of Caring (Preview)

Caring for someone can be a rewarding role, but it can also be very demanding. Carers often put the needs of the cared for first and don’t take notice of how their caring role has impacted upon their own life. Depending on the support needs of the cared for person, caring can mean less time for socialising, emotional exhaustion, hard physical work, lack of physical exercise, disrupted sleep and often extra costs.

Health and wellbeing: Caring can be emotionally and physically exhausting. Carers may not have enough time to be physically active or to cook healthy food. Responsibilities often involve lifting and carrying therefore some health problems, like back problems, anxiety and depression, can be linked to caring.

Financial challenges: Caring can mean extra costs and greater financial hardship, because caring families often have to find money for extra expenses like laundry, disability aids, health care and transport. Carers can also struggle to focus on their career and often give up full time employment to care for a loved one.

Social isolation and relationships: Many carers find it hard to make time for themselves, to socialise or to carry on with their hobbies or interests. Carers can feel a loss of identity or that their life is different from others.

Employment: Many carers miss out on important life opportunities, particularly for paid work, a career and education. Caring for someone can impact upon work performance, due of absenteeism, tiredness or having difficulty concentrating.