yesPopulation ageing and fiscal austerity are set to increase the
reliance on family carers, who already provide much of the
support for people with long term health conditions. Although
most carers are willing, providing care can be hugely stressful,
affecting mental and physical health1 and resulting in social
isolation and financial hardship.2 When under strain, carers are
less likely to be effective, increasing the risk that the care
recipient is admitted to hospital or a care home.3 Health systems
could reduce strain on family carers by routinely considering
carers’ needs alongside patients’ needs in everyday healthcare
decisions—a concept we term “carer proofing”.non
