Tried and Trusted: Advice from Fellow Carers
Caring for someone can be rewarding—but also challenging. We’ve gathered top tips from local carers who’ve been there. Whether you’re new to caring or have years of experience, these insights can help you feel more supported, connected, and confident.
Tip of the Month
"If the person you care for has a degenerative condition, they may eventually be unable to complete tasks they currently manage. Take time to learn these tasks—such as cooking, managing finances, or driving—so you're prepared."
Support and Guidance for Carers
From our Online Carers Support Group
Connect with other carers:
"Reach out for support from others in similar caring roles. There are local groups, information services, advice lines, and befriending services available to carers."
"There’s real value in joining carer groups. It can be reassuring and less isolating to know others are going through similar experiences. Even if you can’t attend often, it can still help."
Set up Power of Attorney (POA):
"Get POAs in place while the person still has mental capacity. It’s easy to put off, but important to act early—you never know what might happen or when."
Managing other people's affairs
Find balance
"Caring can change your life overnight. It’s important to make time for yourself and prioritise your well-being from the start of your caring journey."
Set boundaries
"Not everything needs to be done immediately. It’s okay to say no if you’re feeling overwhelmed or unable to manage something."
Stay organised
"Planning your day, week, month, or year can help reduce stress and make it easier to carve out time for yourself."
Dahlia's Top Tips for Carers
Dahlia is a dedicated carer and a leading advocate for women’s rights in Bristol. Drawing on her years of experience, she’s learned many valuable lessons—here are her top tips for fellow carers.
- Take Care of Yourself: Carers often prioritize the person they care for, but it’s essential to remember your own needs. Taking regular breaks, eating well, and getting enough sleep can help you recharge and remain strong in your caregiving role. Self-care isn’t selfish; it’s necessary for you to give the best care possible.
- Seek Support: You don’t have to go through this journey alone. Reach out to other carers, join support groups, and talk to friends and family. Sometimes, just knowing others understand what you’re going through can provide a huge sense of relief.
- Learn About the Condition: The more you know about the illness or condition the person you care for is dealing with, the better prepared you will be to manage it. Knowledge can also help reduce anxiety and provide a sense of control.
- Ask for Help: Don’t hesitate to ask for help when you need it. Whether it’s from friends, family, or professional services, there is no shame in seeking assistance. Whether it’s for a few hours of respite care or advice, asking for help can make a world of difference.
- Keep a Routine: A regular routine can help both you and the person you care for feel more secure and manage daily tasks more efficiently. It can also help reduce stress and confusion, making daily life smoother for everyone involved.
- Manage Your Stress: Carers can often feel overwhelmed, which can lead to burnout. It’s important to recognize the signs of stress and take proactive steps to manage it, whether that’s through exercise, relaxation techniques, or speaking to a professional.
Depression and anxiety in carers
- Stay Connected: Maintain relationships with friends and loved ones. It can be easy to isolate yourself when you're focused on caregiving, but staying connected to your social network is vital for emotional support and mental well-being.
- Keep Records: Keeping detailed records of the person you care for, including their medical history, medication, appointments, and daily routines, can be extremely helpful. This documentation can assist with managing their care and communicating with healthcare professionals.
- Celebrate Small Wins: Caregiving can be demanding, so it’s important to acknowledge and celebrate the small victories. Whether it’s successfully managing a tough day or making progress with a task, taking time to appreciate these moments can lift your spirits and help you stay motivated.
- Know Your Rights: Be sure to familiarise yourself with your rights as a carer. There are often benefits and support available, including financial aid, respite care, and legal protections. Knowing what’s available can ease the financial and emotional burden of caregiving.
By following these tips, Dahlia believes carers can not only provide better care but also maintain their own health and happiness throughout the journey.
Remember, being a carer is a marathon, not a sprint, and taking it one step at a time can make all the difference.
