Caring for someone with a life-limiting illness can be demanding and can take a toll on you as the carer. It can be difficult to see changes in someone you know so well. While it is a sad time, it can also be incredibly fulfilling and a privilege to know that your support is making a difference to the person you care for at the end of their life.
When we travel on a plane we are told that in the event of an emergency to always put our own oxygen mask on before we help others. They tell us this because we can only help other people if we ourselves are well enough. As a carer, not only do we need to care for others, but we also need to care for ourselves. Caring for ourselves sets us up to be able to provide better care for longer.
It can help to have a self-care plan to document and make a commitment to activities you can do to look after yourself.
CarerHelp
CarerHelp has come up with some practical suggestions to put your health and wellbeing first, including diet, exercise, sleep, social activities and health checks. Sharing the load, saying no, and having realistic expectations of ourselves and others are also critical for staying well.