Carer issues
Caring is rewarding, but not always easy
The majority of carers will say that caring for someone is very rewarding and something they want to do. However, caring is not always easy. 35% of primary carers provide care for 40 or more hours a week, which can go on for many years. 31% of primary carers have been caring for more than 10 years, and 6% have been caring for more than 25 years.
Caring comes at a cost. Carers have poorer health and wellbeing than non-carers. Caring responsibilities can also adversely impact upon family finances due to the costs involved in caring, and because of reduced opportunities to work and save.
Caring can contribute to the breakdown of relationships and mental illness.
Awareness of these issues means that Carers Australia, governments and other support organisations can assist carers who are struggling, and drive change to make the lives of carers easier.
