Role of family caregivers
In order for a person to remain at home as a terminal illness progresses, they require practical help and increasing care from family and friends, as well as community services such as home nursing.
Key points
Caring for someone at the end of their life can give a person more options about where they are cared for and their ability to live as well as possible. They also help the community by reducing the pressure on our health care system.
Being a carer can be stressful as well as rewarding and carers will need information and support.
Palliative care support is provided not just to the patient, but also to their family and carers.
Caregiver assessment can help check their wellbeing in a stressful situation, help them understand what is happening and what is likely to happen, support self-efficacy and coping strategies, and offer timely referral.
Consider early referral to specialist palliative care for distressed or overwhelmed caregivers.
CarerHelp has specially designed resources for people caring for someone with a seriously illness with a life limiting illness.
The carer can do a carer check to identify specific needs. There are also resources for self-care, a question prompt sheet and tips for staying well.
Key GP resources
Last updated 22 May 2026