Transcript
Narrator
Sheila is 75 and in recent years has found herself caring for her husband, Tom, and her son, Craig.
Tom has had Parkinson’s disease for the past five years and needs daily support, while Craig, 37, has Down’s syndrome.
He works, but still needs his mother’s help with everyday activities, like washing and dressing. She has tried respite care, but was not happy with the service.
The demands on her time are compounded by the regular visits she makes to see her mother and sister, who are in care homes.
Sheila
“Caring has got a lot harder as I’ve got older. I can’t cope as well as I used to.”
“My health is generally good but I get tired quicker. I get aches and pains - I suffer from arthritis.”