I am a carer

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Finding out someone you know is going to die comes as a shock. Their world has suddenly changed. Anxiety, sadness and even anger at the news are all common reactions.

Many people, though, choose to see themselves as living with a disease or condition, rather than dying from it.

The person will be receiving care that aims to help them live as well as possible and to stay in control.

This involves looking after all their needs with physical, emotional, social, cultural and spiritual support. Importantly, it also involves caring for the person’s family and carers.

Caring for a person can be demanding. Carers try hard to keep things normal in an abnormal situation. Roles change. Relationships can come under strain as people adjust to their new lives. Yet, most families and carers talk about how rewarding it can be.