Support for Carers

Wherever the term 'partner' is used, this could mean the person you live with, a parent, other relative or a friend. The information is the same whatever your relationship to the patient.

Are you a carer?

If you look after a partner who, because of illness, disability or age, cannot manage without help, you are a carer.

Some people who have a heart condition may depend on another person. Hopefully your partner will get his or her independence back soon and your role as a carer will be temporary.

There are an estimated six million people caring for a relative or friend with some form of illness or disability in the UK.

Often when someone has a heart condition it can be a frightening, confusing and insecure time. This can be the case whether you are the patient or the person caring for them.

Becoming a carer may be something that happens gradually or, in the case of a heart attack, is sudden and unexpected.

Few people are trained to be carers, so it can cause anxiety and stress to both patient and carer. Caring for someone can be physically exhausting as well as emotionally draining.

More information

• what you may need to know for the future
• how to help your partner develop a healthy lifestyle and prevent further heart problems
• financial help for carers and carers’ assessments
• the emotional aspects of caring for someone
• how to deal with stress and anxiety
• useful contacts for more information and support

Please download our booklet Caring For Someone With A Heart Condition

We also have anumber of information sheets in our Any Questions? section that you may find helpful such as:

• Making the most of a GP appointment
• Convalescence and holidays
• Help with NHS charges