Impact Of Caring

• 50% of carers are on a low income and many find it hard to cover living expenses, save money or build up superannuation.

• The extra costs of caring can be huge. Caring families often have to factor in additional costs such as laundry, medicines, disability aids, health care and transport.

Information from Carer’s Victoria:

• Caring can be emotionally and physically exhausting. Carers have the lowest wellbeing of any large demographic measured by the Australian Unity Wellbeing index.

• Carers often put their own health needs last and are 40% more likely to suffer from a chronic health condition. Some health issues such as back problems, anxiety and depression have been directly linked to the caring role.

• Many carers are chronically tired. They desperately need just one night of unbroken sleep, a day off or an extended period with no caring responsibilities.

• Many carers often feel isolated, as they have to pass up on social connections offered by work, recreation and leisure.

• The demands of caring can reduce the time available for other family members or friends.

• Having a caring role can affect other relationships as carers often experience strong emotions like anger, guilt, grief and distress which they have to manage.

• Many carers can miss out on important life opportunities such as wedding or birthday events.

• Caring can make paid work, a career and education difficult to achieve.

• Caring can take the freedom and spontaneity out of life.