What Might Be Some of the Difficulties and Rewards of Being a Carer for a Family Member?

What might be some of the difficulties and rewards of being a carer for a family member?

From using the study resources from the Open University (OU) and understanding the case study, by Joyce Cavaye (2007), of Ann and her family, I will reflect on the challenges that Ann faced in becoming a carer for her step father. I feel I am able to understand what being a carer for a family member entails, and aim to be able to describe what some of the difficulties and rewards of being a carer for a family member are. The government's definition of a carer is ‘someone who looks after a friend, relative, or neighbour who needs support because of their sickness, age or disability'; though this does not cover all of the eventualities which can make it harder to determine if someone is a carer sometimes.

Difficulties

Caring by default – When a family member becomes a carer it may not be by choice which can be the first difficulty to overcome. It may be a shock to learn that they need to care for someone for long periods of time (12% of the adult population – 2001 government census), with possibly no payment for completing this service. Carers vary in their reasons for needing to complete this role; they may be parents who have children with a disability, children of parents who are either disabled, ill or just elderly or they may be young carers (under 18 years old) caring for a parent or sibling. Many of these carers may not be even recognised as being a carer as they may not be accessing any other services to support them.

By having a sense of duty they undertake this role without realising they are able to get additional help, or may feel they are unable to ask for support. In Activity 11 Moeen's mum says ‘I know there are carers that are available, but I want to look after Moeen myself'. Ann gave her mother a ‘death bed' promise to look after Angus which left her feeling obliged to undertake this role. By also living in her mother's house she felt indebted to care for Angus due to the support that her mother had given to herself, Bob and Zoe whilst they were saving for their own home.

Time Management – Being a carer can be a hard job to balance, it is not only physically exhausting but also emotionally and mentally demanding. Ann struggles in being