What Does a Carer Do?
Carers may do a variety of tasks. These might include:
- Practical tasks – washing, cooking or ironing.
- Personal care – bathing and dressing.
- Emotional support – offering a “listening ear”
- Physical lifting and carrying.
- Assisting with medication or collecting prescriptions.
- Helping look after younger siblings.
- Ensuring safety.
- Managing the family budget and paying bills.
- Interpreting.
It is not uncommon for carers to carry out a combination of these tasks and the above list is by no means exhaustive. In some cases a young person may not undertake many practical tasks around the home but may have a significant role in offering emotional support. The nature of an individual’s caring role will be determined by the illness or disability, family circumstances and the support received by external agencies.
