May 2005

Women take care of themselves

Northern suburbs carers took time out to enjoy yoga, massage, relaxation and belly dancing during an event at Glenroy Public Hall hosted by Women’s Health in the North and Moreland Community Health Service.

The carers also visited information stalls, heard representatives from Centrelink and Carers Victoria and received women’s health and well-being information sheets.

Looking After Yourself…A Health Day for Women Carers of All Cultures allowed them to explore the impact caring had on their physical and mental health and access information on local health services.

The event encouraged the women to share laughs, information, advice and their individual caring stories.

They later reported feeling less isolated, more confident to contact support services and inspired to join local activity groups.

Caring for someone who is frail aged, has a disability, mental illness or dementia can be challenging.

Often a carer’s health may be affected by the stress and demands of caring.

Carers’ mental and emotional health may be compromised by social isolation, financial problems and the general lack of recognition of their contribution to society.

Women also often face the added pressures of expectations that they will take on a caring role when a family member or friend becomes unwell.