Survey highlights impact of caring roles

A survey has found that 80% of people caring for a loved one living with dementia have made some form of change to their employment as a result of their caring responsibilities.

Dementia Australia shared the results of the survey of more than 100 people this National Carers Week (15–21 October) to highlight the impacts of caring roles and to remind carers the National Dementia Helpline is available for them 24/7 on 1800 100 500.

Dementia Advocate Bobby Blake’s career was impacted when she began caring for her husband Ross, who was diagnosed with dementia in 2020.

“Many aspects of our life changed when Ross was diagnosed with frontotemporal dementia, and as his dementia progressed, it quickly became clear to me that I couldn’t continue working and provide the support he needed,” Blake said.

Blake explained that employment became a welcomed break from her caring responsibilities, and upon giving up work recognised that she needed to seek support.

“Working was truly an outlet for me and a good distraction from home life. It felt like a huge step to have to give that up, so I knew I had to find support elsewhere to cope,” Blake said.

Dementia Australia CEO Maree McCabe AM said the results of the survey, alongside stories like Bobby’s, highlight the need for carers to be recognised and supported.

“There are more than 400,000 Australians living with dementia and the network of unpaid carers is invaluable to ensuring people living with dementia can maintain their quality of life,” McCabe said.

“While many carers tell us it can be a rewarding experience, it can also come with many challenges that change over time. That is why it is so important for carers to seek support and know that we are here for them no matter their situation.

Image credit: iStock.com/PIKSEL