Support for people looking after elderly relatives?

[KAZ]

Please can anyone tell me if there are any organisations or support groups for people who are looking after elderly relatives?. My Mum cares for my Gran who is now very old, confined to bed, and beginning to get senile demetia. This can be very difficult at times, it is both physically and mentally draining. I feel My Mum would benefit from some support and guidance from others who have experience of this situation.

[mullein3]

wont social services help out here? maybe send a nurse in to look after your gran while she gets a well deserved break...it must be really stressfull..as she cant escape the situation..

[WendyS]

Kaz. I'm so sorry your mum is in this position. Firstly, is your Gran receiving all the allowances to which she's entitled , like Attendance Allowance, etc.? And your Mum may be entitled to receive a Carer's Allowance which might perhaps help pay for some help to come in and help support her.

If you go onto the Age Concern website: http://www.ageconcern.org.uk/AgeConcern/information.htm

you will find is a lot of valuable information about Care and Allowances and where to go to try and get help..

Also, your Gran's GP may be able to contact Social Services and arrange for them to make an assessment of your Gran's needs. It is a huge responsibility for your Mum to try and cope with this problem alone and hopefully by getting Social Services involved, she will get some support. Good Luck.

[Buenchico]

The Alzheimer's Society provide support for those who care for dementia sufferers. Your local branch is the best place to contact:
http://www.alzheimers.org.uk/Your_local_branch/index.htm

Chris

[xHeatherx]

Depends on what area you are in but I believe PSS are specialists in Dementia support.

www.pss.org.uk

Hope that helps!