Resources for carers

Resources for carers

For this reason, we’ve compiled a list of resources to help carers get active, whether that’s in your own home, in a local setting or in one of Norfolk’s beautiful parks, beaches or trails.

Why is being active so important for carers?

Healthy joints and bones

Staying active is important for healthy joints and bones

By remaining physically active, you’ll strengthen your joints and bones.

This is particularly important for avoiding injury yourself, especially if you physically handle the person you’re caring for. It will also lead to a reduced chance of complications or pain as you age.

If you already have existing pains, light physical activity will still strengthen your body, and likely lead to an improvement in any pain you experience over time. You can read more about this here.

Mental health and wellbeing

You’ll boost your mental health and wellbeing

Being a carer can be stressful and cause anxiety. However, exercise releases endorphins which reduce stress levels and can promote an overall happier mood.

If you are able to exercise outside, this will provide added benefits as being outdoors has been linked to improved mental wellbeing in various studies. Being outside will also be good for the mental wellbeing of the person you’re caring for.

Immune system

You’ll boost your immune system

Being physically active helps boost your immune system and reduces the chance of you contracting a health condition.

If you already live with a long-term health condition, physical activity can be used to manage and even lessen symptoms.

Keeping well yourself is just as important to consider when caring for someone else.

Active ageing

You’ll increase your chances of living well for longer

Numerous studies suggest that people who are active are more likely to be healthier and more mobile as they age. We refer to this as ‘active ageing’.

This can result in increased mobility, reduced aches and pains and reduced risk of injury due to falls.

Plus, if you’re caring for an older person, there are plenty of exercises you can do together to keep both of you active. Why not start with our  Living Room Circuits?

We all know that being physically active is important. However, many people don’t know the full list of benefits that being physically active can provide. Click on one of the icons above to explore the benefits of activity, and learn more about each one.

Find ways to get active

At Active Norfolk, we are dedicated to getting the people of Norfolk moving. We understand that exercise isn’t a ‘one size fits all’, as no two people are exactly the same. Whilst some people love getting outdoors and going for walks or runs, others might feel confident in doing so. Similarly, we know that health conditions and other commitments can impact people’s abilities to get out and about.

For this reason, we have hundreds of different ways to get active, both indoors, outdoors and in organised settings. All of our resources include at least one type of accessible activity that can be done by anyone. Click on the links below to find out more.

Get Active at Home

Home exercises and workouts have increased in popularity since the COVID-19 outbreak. This means that there are hundreds of videos, guides and apps available to help you get started.

Our Active at Home section is split into sections to cater to everyone. This includes those who haven’t been active in a while, those who are living with a disability or health condition, and those who are looking for mental health exercises.

Carers UK have also launched an Activity and Wellbeing series you can check out to build more physical activity into your day.

Get Active Outdoors

Being active outdoors can be done alone, with the person you’re caring for or with a friend. It’s a great way to get outside, reduce stress levels and boost your physical and mental wellbeing.

Our On The Move Outdoors walks have been tested by the DRAGONs (Disability Real Action Group of Norfolk) for accessibility. We also have Dementia-Friendly Walking Routes which are perfect for those caring for someone with Dementia.

Find a local club, class or activity

Our brand new activity finder ‘Every Move’ launched in December. It lists classes, activities and local opportunities. This will help you find new and exciting ways of getting active in and around Norfolk.

You can filter the locations and activity types to find the perfect activity for you, whether that’s one you do alone, or join with someone you’re caring for.

Additional resources and guides

Online videos and downloadable guides can provide guidance and support. The number of videos online aimed at caregivers may help to show that you’re not alone if you’re feeling overwhelmed or struggling.

There are also specific videos aimed at young carers if you need to ask for help whilst caring for a family member, but aren’t sure who to turn to.

Other websites to help unpaid carers

We’ve listed several other websites that can provide guidance or advice for carers. These include different resources to take care of your physical and mental health.

For more information, or if you need advice on opportunities for carers and their families to get active near you, please do get in touch with our team by emailing [email protected]