It can be very challenging looking after someone, particularly if you are living with them.  Please take time to look at this Checklist for carers | Caring for someone | Age UK because it is important that you look after yourself.

It is also important to consider what will happen if you cannot provide care – for example if you have the flu, break your leg or need an operation.    Spending time planning for the future means that you and the person you care for can feel more in control of decision making when something unexpected happens.

If you need to be able to speak to the GP surgery on behalf of the person you care for please arrange for them to write a letter to the surgery saying that they give permission for surgery staff to speak to you on their behalf.  We require this even if you have a lasting power of attorney in place because the power of attorney for health and welfare only comes into effect when the person can no longer make decisions about their care.