National Carers Week, 13-19 October, recognises and celebrates carers across Australia for their profound impact on supporting the health and wellbeing of those in need.
National Carers Week is an initiative of Carers Australia funded by the Australian Government Department of Social Services and coordinated with the assistance and participation of the National Carer Network.
Anyone can become a carer at any time, providing unpaid care and support to family members and friends who have a disability, mental health condition, chronic condition, terminal illness, or who are frail.
The Motor Neurone Disease Association of WA provides significant care, support and resources for carers looking after people with motor neurone disease.
“MND is progressive and degenerative, with the carer needing to continually adapt to complex, changing needs,” MNDAWA CEO Maeve Egan explained. “Family and friends play an important role in caring for their loved one with MND.
“Providing care to a person living with MND can be physically, emotionally and psychologically difficult. While many carers highlight the privilege and reward of being able to care for a loved one, it is important that carers also receive the appropriate support and assistance.”
MNDAWA offers a range of support specific to MND, while the association’s staff are highly experienced in anticipating the needs and supporting the role of the carer.
“Through an MND advisor, a client and their carer can be supported in a way that meets both their needs. MND advisors remain alongside the person living with MND and their carer or carers coordinating care, providing emotional support, education and information, and advocacy when needed,” Ms Egan added.
“Fulfilling a carer role for a spouse, parent, sibling or friend changes the relationship significantly and with it can bring many uncertainties and concerns.”
MNDAWA programs, such as You, Me and MND, are designed for carers, equipping them with the information and psychological support to prepare for the changes taking place in their lives.
“Through these programs, as well as monthly carers lunch events, we offer a social opportunity for carers to have some respite and find support among others with similar experiences,” Ms Egan added.
MNDAWA also offers a free equipment loan service, providing assistive technology and mobility equipment such as hoists and wheelchairs, which can make a significant difference in the lives of those with MND and their carers and can greatly reduce the physical impact on the carer.
“Overwhelmingly, we see a resilience and strength in carers, a positivity in the face of adversity. This Carers Week we will be highlighting that strength and reaching out to the carers in our community to remind them that their role is seen and valued.”
Find out how you can support MNDAWA.
