What men need when they become carers
“Don’t be shy about asking for help.”
This is the advice from Dementia Advocate Stuart (pictured above with his wife Bridget) for other men like him who take on the caring role for a loved one.
An estimated 1.7 million Australians are involved in the care of someone living with dementia.
And while every caring journey is unique, there is evidence that men often (though not always) navigate dementia care differently to women.
This has been true for Stuart who has been caring for his wife Bridget since she was diagnosed with young onset Alzheimer’s disease.
“As men, we often struggle to reach out for help and try to do it on our own,” Stuart said.
“This is the worst possible thing to do. You've got to be a bit vulnerable and reach out and find people to talk to.
“Reach out to your social network, reach out to Dementia Australia, but don’t be shy about asking for help.”
Practical support for men who care
It was the differences in the ways men and women approach the caring role that inspired Dementia Australia Services Development Manager Vincent Poisson to develop the ‘Blokes in the Caring Role’ program.
“It is important for men to see and learn from other men in the caring role,” Dr Poisson said.
“By observing and connecting with other men it normalises their caregiving experience.”
He said an additional challenge many men faced was feeling isolated.
“It is common to hear that men in the caring role will not identify themselves as the carer and are more likely to remain isolated, thus not aware of available help out there,” he said.
Dr Poisson, who completed a PhD on the topic of male carers, has developed a toolkit to help health and social care professionals better support male carers of someone living with dementia.
“The toolkit provides practical, evidence-based advice and strategies for professionals on how to specifically support men who are caring for someone living with dementia,” Dr Poisson said.
“For example, my research has shown that male carers often seek help at a crisis point and want very practical, task-focused support to manage the crisis.
“So, for health and social care professionals supporting a male carer, it might be important to be direct and solutions focused.”
Support for men in the caring role
You can access a free pre-recorded webinar on Men in the Caring Role on our website.
The free toolkit for health professionals is available on our website.
For dementia information, support and services, please contact the National Dementia Helpline on 1800 100 500.
