Carers

Carers are individuals who provide care and assistance to someone who cannot fully care for themselves due to illness, disability, frailty, or aging. The term is used for both informal carers—usually family members or friends who care without pay—and formal carers—paid professionals such as home care workers, nurses, or support staff.

Carers perform practical tasks such as personal care, feeding, bathing, mobility support, medication management, household tasks, transport to appointments, and coordinating health services. They may also provide emotional support, advocacy, and monitoring of the care recipient's wellbeing.

Carers may provide care long-term or episodically, and caregiving can span many years. The role can have financial implications, affect employment, education, and social participation. In many countries, informal carers make a substantial contribution to health and social care systems.

Support and rights: Carer assessments or recognition schemes exist to identify needs and offer respite, information, and services. Training, access to professional supervision, and specialized equipment can improve safety and confidence. Financial support, tax relief, or carer allowances may be available; employer policies on flexible hours and leave can help carers stay in work.

Challenges: The demands can cause physical strain, mental health issues, fatigue, and social isolation. Balancing caregiving with work or study can be difficult. Access to timely services and clear information can mitigate stress.

Outlook: Ongoing policy efforts aim to recognise carers, provide training, and ensure sustainable support networks. Caregiving is a common experience across cultures, and national strategies increasingly emphasize carer wellbeing and inclusion.