Info for Carers.

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Information for Carers

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Caring for someone who is seriously ill with M.E. can be a daunting experience. Sadly, the challenges that people face may be magnified due to the lack of medical care and difficulties in claiming benefits for people with M.E.

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Acceptance of the illness by both the sufferer and the carer is essential. This will allow both parties to learn about the illness and eventually judge the sufferer's capabilities and limits. Just as important is belief in the illness. This will allow the carer to listen to the sufferer and offer the right level of care. A positive and encouraging attitude toward the person and their illness is also important.

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Being a carer can, at first, be very confusing as it is difficult to gauge how much help should be offered and how much the M.E. sufferer should be encouraged to do themselves. The most important rule to remember is 'help but don't smother'.

It is crucial for their long-term health that the person with M.E. should try to undertake some tasks, but only within their capabilities. Pushing them to achieve will probably make them worse, so it is important to be patient and not rush them. Be guided by them and let them tell you what they need. The level of help they require may vary day-to-day due to the fluctuating nature of M.E.

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Physical aids such as a wheelchair, shower stool or commode might make it easier to care for the M.E. sufferer and give them a better quality of life. These aids may be available on the NHS by means of an assessment by an occupational therapist. Otherwise, there are many shops that sell such aids, as do many websites.

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Information for Those Caring for a Loved One

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Caring for a very ill person can be draining, so it is important to remember that the carer should take time out for themselves. The maintenance of some sort of work or social life is crucial and if possible respite should be sought such as a holiday. Try to enlist the help of other people; whether this is a friend, neighbour, another family member or a professional carer. After all, it is only possible to provide care if the carer is healthy themselves!

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In many ways, the carer is in the same state of limbo as the person who has M.E. It is not known when an improvement in their condition may be seen, and so frustration is understandable; however, be wary of expecting improvement in the sufferer's health as this may make them feel guilty. Feelings of guilt are common due to being seemingly 'stuck' in an undesirable situation. Organisations such as the Sheffield Carers Centre offer emotional and practical support.

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Caring for a loved one with severe M.E. can change the dynamics of the relationship. Talking to one another is the key to alleviating some of the emotional pressure associated with this. By supporting one another, it is still possible to find joy and happiness amidst stressful and distressing times.

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There are welfare benefits available to carers; however, it is advisable to get expert advice before applying. Claiming carer's benefits may affect any benefits received by the person being cared for. Action for M.E. run a welfare rights helpline (01749 330136) which is a service available to members of the charity.

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Useful Contacts

Sheffield ME and Fibromyalgia Group.

Address: 

The Circle

33 Rockingham Lane

Sheffield

S1 4FW

Email: info@sheffieldmegroup.co.uk

Phone: 0114 2536700

Registered Charity: 1095416

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DISCLAIMER:
The inclusion of information of any kind on this website does not imply a recommendation or guarantee of accuracy. Nor are any views or comments necessarily those of the Group. Before embarking on anything different or new, you are advised to discuss this with your doctor.