Be Supported, Be Free
Caring for a loved one can be both rewarding and challenging, especially when you are their sole carer. We understand that it’s a full-time responsibility that demands your time, energy, and emotional strength.
When someone’s life partner finds they are no longer able to manage day to day life, it can be all too easy for the healthy partner to slot into the role of sole carer. Sadly, this often means a second life is no longer being lived to its fullest extent.
An example of being someone’s sole carer and the issues faced
The person you care for has a condition that has progressed to a point where they require assistance with everyday activities, including mobility, personal care, and managing medications. As their sole carer, you have taken on the responsibility of providing support and ensuring their well-being:
Physical and Mental Strain: Caring for a partner with a progressive condition can be physically demanding. It may involve lifting, transferring, and assisting with mobility, which can take a toll on your own physical health. Additionally, witnessing your partner’s decline in health and dealing with their emotional struggles can have a significant impact on your mental well-being.
Emotional Rollercoaster: Being a sole carer for your partner can involve dealing with a range of complex emotions. You may experience feelings of grief and loss as you witness your partner’s condition deteriorate. You might also face feelings of guilt, frustration, and helplessness when unable to alleviate their suffering or meet their needs adequately. Balancing your emotions while providing care can be challenging.
Limited Personal Time: Being the sole carer often means your time and energy are primarily focused on attending to your partner’s needs. This can result in limited personal time for self-care, relaxation, and pursuing your own interests or social activities. The lack of personal time can lead to feelings of isolation, burnout, and a loss of your own identity outside of caregiving.
Relationship Challenges: The dynamic of your relationship with your partner may undergo significant changes when you become their sole carer. The shift in roles, increased dependency, and the emotional toll of the condition can strain the relationship. Communication challenges, feelings of resentment, and a lack of intimacy may arise, requiring open and honest dialogue to navigate these difficulties.
Lack of Support: As the sole carer, you may face a lack of support from friends and family. Without a strong support network, you may find it challenging to take breaks, seek advice, or share the responsibilities of care. This can amplify feelings of isolation and make the caregiving journey more overwhelming.
An example of being someone’s sole carer with our support
Mr Roberts is living with dementia and though Mrs Roberts is adamant that she is responsible for his overall support without him leaving the familiar surroundings of their home, she is keen to continue living her own life.
So, while Mrs Robert acts as the mainstay of his care, Mr and Mrs Roberts have engaged the services of our fully vetted and trained carers to support Mr Roberts’ care needs.
Mrs Roberts still enjoys lunches with friends, regular keep fit classes and holidays with her family knowing her husband is in good hands and care. She can feel guilt-free.
Uniquely in the at-home care sector, Great Park Homecare does not require any contractual commitments from their service users. Unlike being in a confined and unfamiliar care home setting, this freedom enables clients such as the Roberts’ to utilise support on a needs-only basis. This is not just its cost effective, but also a highly valued and bespoke resource. Both Mr and Mrs Roberts’ well-being is looked after.
We provide home health care services in Windsor, Old Windsor, Ascot and surrounding areas including Binfiel, Bray, Datchet, Dorney, Englefield Green, Eton, Eton Wick, Great Park, Holyport, Maidenhead, Sunningdale, Sunninghill, Virginia Water, Warfield, Winkfield, Windsor and Wraysbury.
Government Support
If you find yourself caring for a loved one, it’s important to be aware of the support and benefits available to help you navigate this journey. Here are details of various financial assistance and support programs that may be able to help your situation:
Financial Support
Caring for someone full-time often means a significant impact on your financial situation. To alleviate this burden, it’s crucial to explore the benefits and support available. You may be eligible to claim Carer’s Allowance if you spend at least 35 hours a week caring. This is a benefit specifically designed to provide financial assistance to carers.
Additionally, Disability Living Allowance (DLA), Personal Independence Payment (PIP), and Pension Credit may be applicable based on your personal circumstances. It’s advisable to contact the Department for Work and Pensions to understand the benefits you may qualify for.
You may be eligible for discounts on expenses like TV licences or car tax. Both you and the person you care for might also qualify for assistance with health costs, including coverage for prescriptions, eye tests, dental treatment, and support in arranging and financing necessary care and assistance.
Support Programs
Caring for someone full-time requires both physical and emotional support. Social care and support services can play a vital role in assisting you. Homecare options will provide relief by offering a break from caring, allowing you to take care of your own well-being. You may also be eligible for Carer’s Assessments, which can help identify additional support needs and services tailored to your situation.
Universal Credit and Additional Benefits
If you’re in need of financial assistance beyond Carer’s Allowance, exploring Universal Credit and Income support could be beneficial. Universal Credit is designed to support individuals with low income or those out of work. Additionally, you may be entitled to other benefits, such as Disablement Benefit or the Daily Living Component of PIP. Understanding and exploring these options can provide essential financial relief.
You will find useful information in our blogs ‘Help with energy bills for the elderly’, ‘The benefits of home care’ and ‘Benefits for the elderly in the UK’.
Let us help you with your homecare…
Being a full-time carer is a challenging role, so it’s essential to be aware of the support and benefits available to you. Great Park Homecare will make a significant difference in ensuring your well-being and enabling you to provide the best care possible.
Your dedication as a carer is commendable, and accessing the necessary support is essential to maintain your own well-being and continue providing quality care to the person you love.
To find out how we can help with your specific needs, call our friendly Care Management Team to discuss your care options and arrange a no-obligation, no-charge home assessment.
If you are someone’s sole carer, please Get in Touch today to find out how Great Park Homecare can help, or give us a call on +44 (0) 1753 369088. Whatever your care experience, we can offer full support.
