Carers needs on the agenda
May 08, 2018
The spotlight will shine on West Moreton carers looking after loved ones impacted by stroke this month, letting them know they are not alone.
Stroke Foundation is set to host a Carers Forum at Ipswich Turf Club on Tuesday 15 May.
The Forum recognises the vital role carers play in a stroke survivor’s recovery journey and provides an opportunity for carers to voice their challenges and triumphs with others who understand. Representatives from local support agencies and service providers will also be on hand to connect with carers.
Stroke Foundation Queensland State Manager Andrea Sanders said the free event was an important step towards better understanding the wellbeing and needs of carers, which can often be overlooked.
“Carers of stroke survivors are usually partners or family members who had no warning their lives would change in an instant and no time to prepare for the journey ahead,” Ms Sanders said.
“Stroke attacks the brain, the human control centre and it can impact every element of life for the individual – their mental health, independence, role within the family, finances and friendships.
“This has a flow on effect to the carer, who often put their own health and needs on the backburner.”
A 2014 study estimated up to 68 percent of carers of a stroke survivor experienced anxiety or depression after the stroke.
With more than 90,000 stroke survivors living in the community in Queensland, the Stroke Foundation is determined to see more support available for carers to ensure their mental health does not suffer and they do not become socially isolated.
Carers Foundation Director Ronnie Benbow will speak at the Forum and agreed carers face many challenges.
“In Queensland alone, one in eight people is registered as a carer and we know they are doing it tough,’’ Ms Benbow said.
“Uncertainty about what the future holds can cause significant stress. Sleep deprivation, financial strain and access to respite are also common issues.
“While needs do vary from case to case, the risk of burnout is a major concern.
“Government, health professionals, researchers and the community must join us in supporting stroke survivors and their carers.”
What: Stroke Foundation Carers Forum
When: 9.15am – 12 noon, Tuesday 15 May
Where: Ipswich Turf Club, 219 Brisbane Road, Bundamba
Stroke Foundation is set to host a Carers Forum at Ipswich Turf Club on Tuesday 15 May.
The Forum recognises the vital role carers play in a stroke survivor’s recovery journey and provides an opportunity for carers to voice their challenges and triumphs with others who understand. Representatives from local support agencies and service providers will also be on hand to connect with carers.
Stroke Foundation Queensland State Manager Andrea Sanders said the free event was an important step towards better understanding the wellbeing and needs of carers, which can often be overlooked.
“Carers of stroke survivors are usually partners or family members who had no warning their lives would change in an instant and no time to prepare for the journey ahead,” Ms Sanders said.
“Stroke attacks the brain, the human control centre and it can impact every element of life for the individual – their mental health, independence, role within the family, finances and friendships.
“This has a flow on effect to the carer, who often put their own health and needs on the backburner.”
A 2014 study estimated up to 68 percent of carers of a stroke survivor experienced anxiety or depression after the stroke.
With more than 90,000 stroke survivors living in the community in Queensland, the Stroke Foundation is determined to see more support available for carers to ensure their mental health does not suffer and they do not become socially isolated.
Carers Foundation Director Ronnie Benbow will speak at the Forum and agreed carers face many challenges.
“In Queensland alone, one in eight people is registered as a carer and we know they are doing it tough,’’ Ms Benbow said.
“Uncertainty about what the future holds can cause significant stress. Sleep deprivation, financial strain and access to respite are also common issues.
“While needs do vary from case to case, the risk of burnout is a major concern.
“Government, health professionals, researchers and the community must join us in supporting stroke survivors and their carers.”
What: Stroke Foundation Carers Forum
When: 9.15am – 12 noon, Tuesday 15 May
Where: Ipswich Turf Club, 219 Brisbane Road, Bundamba