According to Carers Victoria, a carer is someone who provides unpaid care and support to family members and/or friends with a disability, mental illness, chronic health issue or an older person with care needs.
They are parents, children, partners, other relatives and friends who assist with a variety of personal care, health care, transport, administrative support, cognitive emotional tasks, household chores and other activities.
But who cares for the carer?
It can be an exhausting and frustrating role which impinges on the time and resources of the person taking on that role. It is a labour of love with an enormous duty of care and as a society we need to be aware of the commitment and support it wherever possible.
Current conditions are particularly exhausting, with rules to follow and a vulnerable person to protect. Advocating for the person becomes more complicated, as do outings and appointments. Having personal time must be a rare and precious commodity.
Practical and supportive help is available through the Merri Health Carer Gateway.
Carers Victoria is the statewide voice for family carers, representing and providing support to carers in Victoria.
Events
Care for Carers
Join psychologist Gino Carrafa for a talk on resilience and self care for carers. Learn some useful tips and enjoy morning tea with staff from Merri Health who can talk to you individually about resources and support.
Where and When?
Click on branch below and book your place now.
Diamond Valley Library
Thursday 24 March
11.00am - 12.00pm
Ivanhoe Library and Cultural Hub
Tuesday 29 March
11.00am - 12.00pm
Lalor Library
Wednesday 30 March
11.00am - 12.00pm
Eltham Library
Friday 1 April
11.00am - 12.00pm
Books
The Carer’s Bible is essential reading for anyone who cares for an elderly person, whether as a professional or as a loved one, in its promotion of the role dignity and respect should play. It combines tips from carers as well as experts.
The Australian Carers Guide is our countries first and only publication focusing on you, the informal family carer. The overarching theme of our content and the resources and services we provide is all tempered with your physical, financial, mental, spiritual, and emotional wellbeing. It is published quarterly as an electronic resource and this edition focuses on Victoria.
LinkedIn Learning Videos
LinkedIn has many courses to help with everyday life. With Using Resilience to Overcome the (Seemingly) Impossible, learn ways to develop your resilience in order to help yourself adapt when things change or go wrong. This course takes 75 minutes and is just one of several available on LinkedIn.