As an informal carer for a loved one

An informal carer is someone who assists and supports a family member in everyday life in order to enable them to live at home for as long as possible. The nature of informal care can vary depending on the individual family and their circumstances. A family member may need care around the clock or only with some everyday tasks. 

However, as a carer you cannot automatically manage the cared-for person’s affairs, such as finances. Even if you take care of your family member in everyday tasks, you need a mandate to manage their other affairs.  Further information is available on the page  "Help for a smoother everyday life" under the title "Can I take care of things on behalf of my loved one?"

You could be a carer if you are looking after a family member or loved one who is ill, disabled, elderly or otherwise in need of special assistance and support. Your family member would not be able cope with everyday tasks without your help.  

When a family member first starts needing increased care and assistance with everyday tasks, it may take a while before you recognise your situation as that of a carer. 

Not all carers enter into a care agreement. The definition is not limited to those carers who have made such an agreement. It is important that you recognise the situation in time and know how to get support for your caring tasks and personal well-being.

You could be a carer if your child has a disability or special support needs. Parenthood makes it difficult to perceive and understand the situation, as caring for your child is considered a personal responsibility. 

The care relationship can develop slowly as a result of an increase in the child's need for help, or suddenly as a result of illness, accident or the birth of a child with a disability. You might realise that you are an informal carer if your child does not develop normally and needs continuous care, perhaps even around the clock.   

Your child may have special support needs in:   

• physical or motor development  
• speech production or communication  
• learning or focusing  
• social or emotional development.

It is important that you identify the situation early. Seek help with caring for your child and your family. The Informal Carer for a Child guide (in Finnish)Opens in a new window. helps you understand what is meant by informal care and what kind of assistance is available. 

You could be an informal carer if your family member or loved one is elderly or has an illness or disability. You can live in the same household or separately, even in different towns.  

Carers can have regular jobs in addition to their caring duties. You could also be unemployed, a student or retired. There are carers in all age groups. 

Possible obstacles to becoming a carer: 

• your physical or psychological capacity  
• substance abuse problems 
• if your family member does not want you as their carer.

Being a carer can be difficult. It is a good idea to seek peer support as soon as you become a carer. You can ask about other carers’ experiences before you decide to take on caring responsibilities. Many organisations offer peer support even if you are not looking to apply for informal care support.

A family member’s illness can be mentally difficult. Your family member may change in some way as a result of an illness or disability, which could have an impact on your relationship. It is important that you find support to talk about your own feelings. In peer support groups, you can find people who have gone through similar emotions and issues. You should also discuss your new situation with family and friends and accept their help. 

Being your child’s informal carer can be difficult. You can find peer support in informal carers' networks or based on your child's illness or disability. Groups can be found via social media and various organisations.   

You can ask about other carers’ experiences before deciding whether to apply for informal care support. In peer support groups, you can find people who have gone through similar emotions and issues. You can also talk to family and friends. Don’t forget to ask for help, and accept it when offered.  Many organisations offer peer support even if you are not looking to apply for informal care support.