This article is written by a carer and is a lesson for us all.

When you suffer from an illness or condition, be it Parkinsons, arthritis, MS, a stroke – to name but a few, or you are just getting older and less able, it is everyone around you that has to make adjustments in their life as well.

A partner’s role changes, so does that of a parent, sibling, or child. Sometimes the carer gets forgotten amongst all the things that are happening to their loved one. Your husband or wife may find they are doing more and more for you, likewise anyone else whom you live with. Children can be confused or frightened at what is happening to their mum or dad. Just as life has changed for you, everyone around you is making adjustments and changes too.

Remember disability does not just affect you but everybody around you that loves and cares for you.

Sometimes you can make things easier for your carer, and in turn help yourself too.

Think about how life has changed for your carer. They probably just do things without ever thinking about it. They love you so they just get on with it.
But are they?

• Taking you to more visits to the doctor, physio or hospital?
• Helping you more with your personal care
• Spending more time lifting and fetching things for you?

If they are, there is no need at all for you to feel guilty about this. They love you and would do anything to help you,  just as you would if the tables were turned. My husband needs much more help than he did 5 years ago, much of my time is spent helping him get the quality of life he deserves, and I don’t mind at all. He does as much for himself as he can, which helps him mentally, as it helps me physically.

There are things you can do to make their lives as easy as possible though.

There are some things that become impossible, or just too difficult or painful. Other things can be achieved with a little helping hand. Have a look at our mobility aids, they can take some pressure off your carer and help you keep as much of your independence as possible.

• If you can’t reach the floor, a grabber can mean you can get something you have dropped yourself.
• If you can’t get into the bath on your own, a bath seat might mean your carer is not lifting you as much,
  so placing less strain on their back.
• If you want to visit the doctor and not ask someone else to drive you, a mobility scooter might solve your problems.

The more you do the more in control of your illness or disability you become.

Author: admin