If you care for someone with a long-term condition, their symptoms are likely to change over time. It's important to be aware of what to look out for and how to manage any new symptoms. Everyone’s experience of illness or disability is different and the person you care for may not experience all the symptoms related to their condition, but there are many organisations that will be able to help you stay informed and support you with these changes.
Health professionals
The GP of the person you care for can provide them with information about how their condition is likely to progress and how best to manage any new symptoms. If the person you care for wants you to go with them to their doctor’s appointments then their GP will also be able to help you with any questions or concerns you may have.
You should also tell your own GP that you are a carer as they may be able to advise you on local sources of support and provide training with practical skills such as changing a dressing.
Carers can also receive training in lifting and moving and giving medication.
If the person you care for receives help from other professionals, such as occupational therapists, social workers or hospital consultants, these professionals will also be able to provide you with information and training on how to manage new symptoms.
Health charities
Condition-specific organisations such as the Alzheimer’s Society or Mind have lots of information for people with certain conditions and their carers, including tips on how to manage symptoms. This information may be provided online or in factsheets. Some organisations have local offices where you can speak to someone in person, and many have a telephone helpline.
Other carers
You may find it helps to speak to other carers who are looking after someone with the same condition. You can talk to other carers online through forums or face to face at your local carers centre. For more information see Peer support.
Some carers centres and condition-specific centres arrange for health professionals to come in and talk to carers to give you the opportunity to find out more about certain conditions.
If you want to speak to an adviser to find out about organisations that can help the condition of the person you care for, or to find your nearest carers centre, contact the Carers Direct helpline. The helpline is free on 0808 802 0202 from 8am to 9pm Monday to Friday, and 11am to 4pm on weekends. You can also ask a question by email.
