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For carers

Caring for someone can be overwhelming and exhausting. How can one person manage all this, and look after their own emotional and physical health as well?
 
Caring is a rewarding experience, but it can also be very demanding. Sometimes carers also need help and support.  It’s OK to ask for help.
 
Are you a carer?

Caring for a person with cancer starts as soon as a diagnosis is confirmed. When someone has cancer, there are usually family members or friends who provide physical and emotional care and support.
 
Carers can live with the cancer patient, or provide support in other ways. Sometimes there is more than one carer. Care might be needed for a relatively short time, or over months or years.
 
Carers often
  • provide emotional support and encouragement
  • give practical assistance by looking after meals and day-to-day running of the household, including finances
  • provide transport
  • talk to doctors and health professionals with the patient
  • look after medications and deal with side effects
  • provide physical care.
Each carer’s needs are different. Some people value help with the tasks of daily living or being given some time off.  Others would like to know more about treatments and medications. Maybe you just need someone to listen to you.
 
Talk to someone on Cancer Council Helpline 13 11 20 or email chl@cancersa.org.au. 
 
You may find it helpful to look at this list of practical and financial help available in South Australia.
 
Find out more
 
Go to our Online library - Care and support section 
   Read Caring for a person with advanced cancer 
          Someone I know has cancer (resources for kids)
Something new

imthinkingofyou - this is an interactive communication tool that links family, friends and communities in times of need 
 


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