Caring for a heart patient
Every day, six thousand people take on a caring
responsibility. Many, perhaps like you, don't even consider
themselves to be carers, but think they are simply partners, family
or friends doing what anyone in their situation would do: caring
for someone they love.
Caring for yourself too
I am a carer, but I don't think of myself as one. I think that part of loving someone is looking after them. If the boot was on the other foot he'd do the same for me.
Being a carer for someone who has a heart condition can be very
demanding - both physically and emotionally. Some carers will
juggle their job at work with home and family life as well as
looking after their partner or relative.
If you are a carer, whether your caring involves emotional
support, taking on extra chores or caring for someone 24 hours a
day, you need to have a life of your own and to take care of your
own physical and mental wellbeing. This includes taking regular
breaks and time out for yourself.
Carers UK is the
charity that campaigns for the rights of carers. They know the
importance of recognising yourself as a carer and suggest the
following can be helpful:
- Tell your GP, because looking after your health is important
too
- Tell Social Services, because they provide a range of services
for carers
- Tell people at work, because you may have to take time off for
hospital appointments
- Find out about and claim anything you may be entitled to, such
as carers allowance
- Find your nearest carers groups and centres
- Look after yourself - take time to treat yourself
- Plan for the future
The more your role as a carer is recognised the better access
you will have to support. We know that caring for a loved one can
be deeply rewarding, but it can also be stressful.
Where can I find support?
I know now that you can still have a positive life -
you just have to know where to go for support
Whether you need
practical advice, a sympathetic ear or a chance to take a break,
there are plenty of organisations ready to give you that
support.
Our booklet
Caring for someone with a heart condition contains practical
information, such as financial help you may be entitled to and the
emotional aspects of being a carer and how to cope if things get
difficult. It also includes details of organisations that are able
to provide carers with support.
Our affiliated Heart Support Groups
are one of the best places for both heart patients and their carers
to get help and support. Set up by patients and carers, they do a
tremendous job in bringing fun and friendship into peoples lives
after the traumatic experience of a heart incident or
diagnosis.
Joining our Online Community will give you
an opportunity to share your experiences, stories, tips and ideas
with other people like you.
Our Heart Helpline cardiac nurses and
heart health advisors are here to provide you with information and
support on anything heart related - 0300 330
3311.