Carers play an important role in our society,  providing selfless care each and every day without seeking anything in return. It can be an extremely rewarding role but it can also be very isolating and physically and emotionally demanding. 

In this episode we talk define what a carer is, how you become one and how you can be the best carer you can be. As we discuss, this often starts with looking after your own mental and physical wellbeing before helping others (you can't pour from an empty cup!). 
 
Recognising you are a carer, maintaining your own identity, and connecting with other carers are all important steps to thriving in the role of carer. 

So, if you are caring for someone you love, you are not alone and we hope this episode helps provide you with some strategies to help you be the best carer you can be.

If you know of someone providing selfless care each and every day, don't forget to check in with them (and maybe even send them this episode!). 

Get more information at Carers Victoria: https://www.carersvictoria.org.au/ 

Show notes/ topics covered:

0:18 - Welcome 
1:05 - How to be the best carer you can be 
1:37 - What is a carer? 
3:58 - Carer support 
5:36 - Physical aspect of caring 
7:23 - How to lift safely 
9:35 - Having the right aids in the house 
10:44 - Recognising that you are a carer 
12:50 - Managing the emotional strain of being a carer 
14:50 - Take home message

About the experts: 

Jason Lee and Dr Jane Fyfield have over 45 years of experience working with elderly Australians. Jason Lee runs his own physiotherapy practice, with a focus on strength and conditioning programs for over 60 year olds. Dr Jane Fyfield works as a consultant to aged care services, is a former Medical Director, and has worked in the public, private and government sectors as a clinician and a non-clinical consultant.