Being a male carer and caring for a male can raise it's own challenges and questions for some of our carers, which is why we wanted to put some information together that may be useful to you in your caring role, maintaining your own health and the health of your loved ones.
The NHS provides free health checks for adults aged between 40 and 74, who do not have any pre-existing medical conditions. The free check is to spot early signs of heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, kidney disease and dementia which are more likely to develop as we age. From age 40 these checks should be carried out evey 5 years and you can check with your local GP if they will alert you automatically each time one is due. If you or the person you care for has not been contacted yet, call your registered GP to arrange a check up.
This is an especially useful resource because heart disease is high risk for men, 1 in 10 men aged 50 have a heart age 10 years older than they are, and heart disease mortality is higher in men. Find out more from New Victoria Hospital here and Ben.org here.
Other diseases which are of a higher risk for men are: Parkinson's disease and lung cancer.
We want to make sure yourself and those you care for are able to access all support and information that may help you in your caring role. It is important to take time to look after yourself as a carer, and we know that sometimes your own health and wellbeing may not be your top priority.
Online Help and Advice
Visit our online support section where we have provided advice and guidance on a range of relevant topics to help you in your caring role.