Hello Carer . . . your support and hope !

In your role as a Carer, this is so unlike any job skill anywhere in the World. It is said the Lord provided Angels for many of the special needs on call and within the World today, many would suggest a Carer is one of those Angels in disguise.
The role is not not tied to a clock; demand fills the need. A Carer is a 'wanna be' person, who has the ability to want to help, to encourage, to be a listener, a controller, a comforter, who can vary and seize the moment and to decide what action to take to rectify a situation at hand.
Carer's make-up comes as females 75% and males 25%, but the minds of the Carer often run at the same speed; one of the few areas of sex gender that has nothing to do with it.
There will be times when you will fall to the 'silent illness'. Do not let it take hold of Yourself. Don't be ashamed if you feel a need to shed a tear now and then - it will assist the stress factor, or a moment of joy for you.
A Carer's mind has to work in a flexible mode, because you never can predict the next crises. Communicate with "I", not with so much "You"; the patient will effectively feel they are working with You, and you are showing responsibility to them.
Work to a set of principles; have knowledge of health systems and insurance, work with medicos, know when to worry 'what's wrong' and when to turn-off. Remember, Caring is a dedication.
Keep a diary - remember those who willingly assist you; don't be afraid to ask for help!
Finally, be aware of advanced health directives and the family legal designations etc. In life's finalities your role is not finished. There are family, friends and love-ones to see too! Finalising the Care goes beyond the patient.
Yours in support and hope, Geoff.