Podcast ¦ Vulnerability Matters: Episode 17 – Being a carer with Trevor Salomon and Chris Fitch

Access the full podcast series here

Summary

This podcast episode focuses on the experience of being an unpaid carer. It highlights the challenges faced by unpaid carers and the impact it can have on their lives. The podcast features an interview with Trevor Salomon, who shares his personal experience of being a primary carer for his wife who was diagnosed with early onset Alzheimer’s. Trevor discusses the daily life of a carer, the changes in the relationship, and the importance of accepting support and utilizing essential services.

Key Points

  • In England and Wales, 1 in 10 people are unpaid carers.
  • 5 million unpaid carers provide care for someone with a health condition.
  • 2 million unpaid carers provide 35 or more hours of care per week.
  • 30% of unpaid carers feel isolated and lonely.
  • 60% of unpaid carers have their own long term health problems.
  • 75% of unpaid carers with jobs worry about juggling employment and caring responsibilities.
  • The experience of being a carer is different when you are a primary carer compared to being a secondary carer.
  • Caring for someone with dementia involves providing support, maintaining independence, and keeping them safe.
  • Accepting support from friends and educating them on how to help is important for carers.
  • Practical and financial arrangements such as power of attorney and updated wills should be prioritized.
  • Essential services need to provide more training on disabilities and dementia to improve interactions with carers.
  • Using power of attorney can be challenging when dealing with some organizations, such as the Tax Office.
  • The decision to move a loved one to a care home can be difficult but may be the best choice for their care and the carer’s well-being.
See also  [PODCAST]: Informing Choices: The Office of the Future: 2050 and Beyond

Key Statistics

  • 1 in 10 people in England and Wales are unpaid carers
  • 5 million unpaid carers provide care for someone with a health condition
  • 2 million unpaid carers provide 35 or more hours of care per week
  • 30% of unpaid carers feel isolated and lonely
  • 60% of unpaid carers have their own long term health problems
  • 75% of unpaid carers with jobs worry about juggling employment and caring responsibilities
  • Early onset Alzheimer’s was diagnosed in Trevor’s wife in 2009
  • Trevor’s wife became doubly incontinent by 2019, leading to the decision of professional care in a care home

Key Takeaways

  • Being a carer is a challenging role that can lead to isolation, loneliness, and health problems for the carer.
  • The experience of being a primary carer is different from being a secondary carer, with 24/7 responsibilities and increasing necessity for support.
  • Accepting support from friends and educating them on how to help can make a significant difference in a carer’s experience.
  • Practical arrangements such as power of attorney and updated wills are crucial for the well-being of both the carer and the person being cared for.
  • Essential service providers should receive training on disabilities and dementia to improve their interactions and support for carers.
  • Caring for someone with dementia involves providing support, maintaining independence, and adapting to changing needs.
  • The decision to move a loved one to a care home can be a difficult but necessary choice for their well-being and the ability of the carer to have a life outside of caring.
  • Proper support systems and understanding from organizations can make a huge difference in the quality of life for both carers and those they care for.
  • Planning and being proactive in managing the practical and financial aspects of caring can prevent unnecessary stress and challenges.
  • Compassion and empathy from service providers can greatly improve the overall experience of carers and those they care for.
  • Carers should prioritize self-care and seek support from others to prevent burnout and maintain their well-being.
  • The role of a carer involves constantly adapting to changing circumstances and providing care, while also recognizing personal limitations and seeking external help when needed.
See also  Podcast ¦ Vulnerability Matters: Episode 15 - Visible difference with Sudha Vijay, Jane Rodrick, Michaela Baker and Chris Fitch


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