Resources for carers
We know that carers often find it hard to find time for themselves.
Whilst providing care is often a very physically demanding job, it’s important to ensure you’re finding time in your day to incorporate different types of activity.
This is important as being active can ease feelings of stress and tension. It not only boosts your physical fitness, but also your mental wellbeing.
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?
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
If you have any troubles using the Active at Home booklet, get in touch to discuss a physical copy being sent directly to your home!
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.
- parkrun – Weekly 5k runs dotted around Norfolk. Walk or run at your own pace!
- All To Play For – A mental health football programme for men aged 18+ in Norfolk
- Age UK Norwich – A range of activities suitable for any age and ability
- Epic Norfolk Online – Free live exercises sessions for those aged 55+
- On The Move Outdoors – Accessible walks that can be done by carers and the person they care for together
- Couch to 5k – A 9 week running plan for beginners
- Couch to Fitness – A 9 week exercise programme suitable for beginners
- Exi – A 12 week personalised programme which will help users to safely and gently increase their activity levels
- 10 Today – 10 minute routines to get you stretching and moving
- parkwalk – An 8 week guide to successfully completing a 5k walk
- NHS Fitness Hub – Free videos covering aerobic exercise, strength, resistance, Yoga and Pilates
- Gym free workouts – Illustrated workout guides that don’t require a gym or equipment
- Carers UK – Help and advice hub for carers
- NICE Guidance – Guidance, pathways and quality standards for carers
- Age UK – Looking after yourself when caring for someone
- Norfolk Family Carers – Advice and support for unpaid family carers
- Young Carers Matter Norfolk – Supporting young carers and families in Norfolk
- Caring Together – Supporting carers of all ages in Norfolk
- ChatHealth – a secure text messaging service which can be used by young carers 11-19 who need advice or guidance
- Caring Together’s Someone To Talk To – Various resources to support carers in Norfolk
- Young Carer’s Matter Support Section – A free advice line for young carers or their parents
- All To Play For – Football sessions designed for men in Norfolk aged 18+ who need extra support with their mental health. Mental health support and guidance will be present at all sessions
- The Children’s Society – resources for young carers’ wellbeing
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]