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Am I a carer?

If you support someone with pulmonary fibrosis you could be considered a carer. This doesn't mean you are not also a friend or family member, but identifying as a carer can help you access support.

‍Using the word ‘carer’

Some people may not like to use the term carer as they are, first and foremost, family members or friends. However, it can be helpful to identify as a carer. This can allow you to access support and information for both you and the person you support.

Some people prefer to use the term caregiver instead of carer.

You’re a carer if...

If you look after someone who cannot cope without support, and you don’t get paid for it, you are a carer.

If you’re not sure, consider how your loved one would manage if you were not supporting them. That support means something different to each person, but could include helping them to:

Move around at home, such as getting out of bed
Carry out personal care e.g. washing and dressing
Manage everyday activities e.g. preparing meals or making appointments
Get out and about e.g. picking up prescriptions or getting to appointments
Cope with symptoms of mental illness

If the person’s physical or mental health would get worse without your support, you could be considered a carer.‍

Read our information for family, friends and unpaid carers

Find out more about joining our Carer's Community

Listen to our podcast episode about what it means to be a carer

Our website and resources provide general information only. We cannot provide medical advice, treatment or prescriptions, nor can we assess/decide what services or clinicians you should be referred to. Support with these matters will need to be provided by your existing healthcare professional teams.

APF is not responsible for any errors or omissions or for any loss or damage suffered by users resulting from the information published on our website or in our resources.

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