Caring for the carer
Looking after yourself while you care for a parent
Caring for a parent is an act of love, and it is also hard work. Families who share the load and take rest care for longer and more kindly.
By the Safehands nursing team · 5 minute read
Share the load early
Sit down as a family, including brothers and sisters abroad, and write down who does what: visits, money, appointments, nights. A shared group chat with a weekly summary helps everyone stay involved.
Those far away can often contribute money for paid help while those nearby give time. Both are care.
Plan for rest
Book regular time off before you are exhausted. Even one free afternoon a week, or two nights of sleep with a night sitter, makes a difference.
Keep one thing that is yours: church choir, a walk, time with friends. You are allowed to.
Know the signs you need help
Feeling short-tempered, not sleeping, crying often or dreading the next day are signs to ask for support. It does not mean you have failed.
Speak to your own doctor if you feel low for more than two weeks.
Paid help without guilt
Many families feel they should manage alone. Paid caregivers do not replace you; they let you be a son or daughter again, rather than only a nurse.
General information only, not medical advice. Speak to the person's own doctor about any health concern.
A family rota
Who does what, written down
An example rota from a family we support.
| Who | Does |
|---|---|
| Eldest son, Lagos | Pays the caregiver invoice; video call on Sundays |
| Daughter, Uyo | Visits Tuesday and Saturday; doctor appointments |
| Younger son, abroad | Pays for nurse visits; calls Wednesday |
| Safehands | Weekday mornings, two nights a week, monthly nurse review |
Questions
Families also ask
Can you cover just weekends?
Yes. Weekend-only plans and night sitting are popular with working families.
Do you offer short respite stays at home?
Yes. A caregiver can stay for a week or two while the family travels, with a nurse visit in between.
Start with a free assessment visit
A senior nurse comes to the home, meets the person you care for and the family, and talks through what would help. There is no charge within Uyo and no obligation.