The hidden cost of care

Research shows that professionals in the health and care arena have been warned not to highlight the needs of carers at the expense of the care needs of the disabled. This 'cloaking' of carers' needs merely intensifies the shift to contain risk and ration scarce resources. Compounded by increased life expectancy and the continuing reduction in residential care placements, as the demand for unpaid carers grows the demands made upon them are ever-increasing.

Thus the true cost of caring for the frail, sick or disabled is not generally recognised and the hidden cost often falls heavily on their family.

Older carers are the most disadvantaged group in Britain. As eighty year-old Louisa from our survey said:

"With dementia you have to climb into their shoes and try to imagine how it is for them in their world until you are virtually feeling and thinking for them as you would for a young child ... But there's a big difference: a child can learn new things by remembering them - a person with dementia simply can't remember. It's hard work ... having to empathise continuously at this level ... it changes your relationship."

Our own experience, survey and casework shows that carers often feel exploited. They are usually coping with a situation they did not invite in and over which they have little control. Not being in charge on one's own destiny is a well-documented cause of depression and ill-health. Deferring one's own needs to those of another is stressful and another 'invisible' contributor to the careburden which some describe as "horrendous", "a nightmare", and only measured in the toll it takes on the carer's own health.

Don't Suffer in Silence!

If you feel let down, isolated, are not living your life as effectively as you would wish; if you feel stressed, are unable to think straight, let alone ahead, it may help to talk to someone with similar caring experiences to your own. Whilst we cannot solve your problems for you, we can provide support so that you no longer feel so alone and help you to see that you do have options. Please ring our confidential Caring for Carers line (01202) 737592.