Five Indispensable Items for your Carer’s “Tool Kit”

You’re a carer and you are very committed to tending to the needs of the person you care for and about, but are you as dedicated about caring for your own health and wellbeing?

Studies show that when caregivers do not take care of themselves and don’t take a break, they increase their own risk for health problems; in fact (maybe surprisingly) caregivers manage stress in less healthy ways than the general population.

When caregivers do not take care of themselves and don’t take a break, they increase their own risk for health problems

The single most important thing to remember is that small changes can go a long way. You can even make it something simple, like carving out 15 minutes of ‘me time’ each day.

Reduce your caregiver health risks with these five indispensable items every carer needs:

1. Timeout Timetable
   A daily or weekly timetable of time-outs for YOU. Even if it is only 15 minutes a day.
2. A backup plan
   A detailed backup plan for you in case of unexpected illness
3. Regular scheduled health checks
   Establishing a regular health checkup improves your chances of limiting and preventing health problems throughout your life. Remember, keeping on track of your health starts with you.
4. An Advance Care Directive - for you and the person you are caring for
   An Advance Care Directive is a document that states your wishes or directions about future health care for various medical conditions if you are unable to make your own decisions
5. Assistive technology products
   Assistive products can support a wide variety of care needs, providing peace of mind for carers of people facing risks of falls, diabetes, dementia, epilepsy, chronic disease, physical disability and post hospitalisation care.

It’s so important to look after yourself – it seems obvious to say it but if you aren’t well and happy, and you lose yourself in the daily demands of your care role, then how can you provide the care you want to for your loved one?