Informal Carer

A person who provides regular care and support to a family member, friend, or neighbour who has a disability, chronic illness, mental health condition, or age-related needs, without being paid as a professional caregiver. Informal carers — most commonly spouses, adult children, or other relatives — are the primary source of support for many people living with dementia or other cognitive impairments. They often take on significant physical, emotional, and logistical responsibilities while managing their own health and wellbeing. Technology and social programs designed for people with disabilities increasingly recognise the need to support informal carers as well, since carer burnout directly impacts the quality of care and the social participation of the person they support.