Take Care of You

Welcome to Take Care of You: Self-Care for Unpaid Carers

Welcome to takecareofyou.com.au. As a caregiver myself, I understand the struggle of finding time for self-care amidst the responsibilities of taking care of others.
In these podcasts we'll share practical self-care tips and stories from the unpaid carer community.

Take Care of You: Viv's story

In this episode, join our special guest Viv, a long-time carer for her father battling dementia. The episode delves into her journey, taking a detailed look at the highs and lows of caregiving while juggling a career, family, and other life responsibilities. In the heart of a conversation fuelled by personal experiences, you will uncover valuable tips and crucial advice that can aid in navigating the challenging terrain of caregiving.
The episode kicks-off with Viv providing a glimpse into her backstory of becoming a carer for her alcoholic father, diagnosed with frontal lobe dementia. She openly addresses the emotional rollercoaster, taxing stress, and the steep learning curve involved in maneuvering through the healthcare system.
She recounts her experience of relocating her father multiple times, the effects on her career, and the toll it took on her personal life. She lays emphasis on the importance of supportive relationships, the benefits of formal help from government organizations, and setting necessary boundaries.
The conversation then shifts focus to the associated guilt, the rewards of reestablished trust, and the elemental role of self-care. In hindsight, Viv shares lessons learned and how she would have done things differently had she known the complexities of the journey ahead. Wrapping up with candid advice, Viv encourages fellow caregivers to be kind to themselves, to accept the reality, and put their well-being first.
Immerse yourself in this revealing episode that traverses the challenging yet rewarding path of caregiving, offering meaningful insights and guidance to fellow carers.