Life after caring

At some time, your role as a carer might end. This might be when the person you care for recovers, when they die, or when they leave your care and other people take over the caring role. You may have to adjust to changes and ‘rebuild’ your life when you are no longer a carer.

What to expect when your caring role ends

You might feel intense loss, guilt and sadness. You might also feel worried about the future. This is a natural reaction. Grief has no timeline. Grieving can continue for some time, even for many years.

Some people find that physical and emotional exhaustion catches up with them and they might feel ill or very tired for a while.

Carer Gateway also can provide support when a person’s caring role ends. Call Carer Gateway on 1800 422 737 to find out about services and support available to you.

What to do when you are no longer a carer

The time will come when you are ready to think about what to do next.

Research shows that carers can give up activities and lose contact with friends and their community. Try to follow your interests, reconnect with family and friends, and make new friends.

You might also consider volunteering, learning something new or going back to work.

If you would like to go back to work, Workforce Australia is a place Australians can search and apply for jobs or find more information about their pathway to employment.