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Carers Resources

Navigating Caregiving Challenges

Explore answers to common questions and find helpful suggestions on managing various aspects of caregiving for individuals with life-limiting illnesses. 

From understanding delirium to coping with loss and grief, these resources aim to provide support and guidance to carers navigating challenging situations. 

Additionally, discover practical tips for managing symptoms like constipation and shortness of breath, as well as insights into creating meaningful memories through activities like making a memory box.

Lastly, delve into the “Ending Life Well” podcast series, designed to equip and support carers facing the complexities of caring for a loved one at the end of life.

Ending Life Well
Discover “Ending Life Well,” a groundbreaking podcast series designed to support caregivers navigating the challenging journey of caring for loved ones at the end of life. 
 
Created by the specialist palliative care team at Otago Community Hospice and supported by Hospice New Zealand, this series offers invaluable advice and insights for caregivers facing the complexities of providing end-of-life care.
 
Hosted by experienced palliative specialist nurse Denise van Aalst, “Ending Life Well” provides practical tips, expert knowledge, and heartfelt support for caregivers, empowering them to navigate this journey with confidence and compassion. 
 
Whether you’re new to caregiving or seeking additional guidance, this podcast series is a valuable resource for caregivers everywhere.
 
Delirium – Common Questions

For answers to the following questions, and suggestions on how carers may help, please click here

  • What is delirium?
  • Is delirium the same as dementia?
  • Who develops delirium and how long does it last?
  • Delirium can be distressing for others and some suggestions on how you may help  
Constipation

For answers to common questions about constipation, finding out what the causes of it are, and treatments available.

Managing Shortness of Breath

Do you notice that if you are having trouble breathing, you become anxious?  

When people experience this, it can be so distressing that they start to limit their activities to avoid anything that may cause them to feel shortness of breath or “panicky”.  

See link below for some ideas to help manage this.

Coping with Loss and Grief

Grief affects how we think and feel, how we do things and our relationships with other.  

See link below for helpful tips on how to cope with loss and grief.

Making a Memory Box

A memory box is a container to hold special things belonging to your loved one that they want to share with someone dear to them.  

The things in the box can help your loved one hold on to memories, and can be made for an adult, or a child of any age.