In some ways I had it easy as I didn’t have a partner, children or siblings. There was no-one moaning at me because I was spending so much time with mum. When it came to power of attorney it was me or no-one. On the other hand I had no financial, practical or emotional support and that was really tough.
Let’s work through relationships: social relationships and family relationships.
Social relationships
Carers often say that friends and family disappear once caring begins. This can lead to isolation and resentment. A 2010 Carers Week survey revealed that many carers can no longer rely on relatives for support, as these relationships have suffered as a result of caring. Three out of four people surveyed said they had lost touch with family and friends.
The harsh reality is you’re no able to get out at short notice. You might not be able to get out at all. Your friends may not be willing or able to cope with the fact that your mum or dad has Alzheimers or dementia. The brutal truth is – a real true friend is there when the shxt hits the fan but whilst many people talk about their friends in reality they probably only have one or two true friends. The rest are acquaintances. Consider joining Carers UK’s website forum.