Carer: meaning, definitions and examples

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carer

 

[ˈkɛə.rə ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

healthcare professional

A carer is an individual who provides care and support to someone who needs assistance due to illness, disability, or age-related difficulties. Carers can be family members, friends, or professional caregivers. Their responsibilities may include helping with daily activities, administering medication, and offering emotional support. The role of a carer is vital in ensuring the well-being of those who are unable to care for themselves.

Synonyms

attendant, caregiver, nurse.

Examples of usage

  • The carer helped the elderly woman with her daily tasks.
  • Many people rely on a carer for assistance at home.
  • Professional carers are trained to handle various health conditions.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word derives from the verb 'care,' which comes from the Old English 'carian,' meaning 'to grieve, feel concern.'
  • The suffix '-er' indicates a person who performs an action, so a carer is literally someone who cares.
  • The term became widely used in the late 20th century as the role of caregivers became more recognized in society.

Cultural Perspectives

  • In many cultures, caregiving is often viewed as a familial duty, emphasizing respect and responsibility towards elderly family members.
  • Some societies celebrate Carers Week to honor those who dedicate their lives to helping others.
  • Discussions about caregiving highlight the importance of mental health support for caregivers, as their role can be emotionally taxing.

Psychology

  • Research shows that people who receive consistent care tend to experience lower levels of stress and anxiety.
  • Studies indicate that the quality of care provided can significantly influence the emotional well-being of both the carer and the individual being cared for.
  • The act of caregiving can forge deep emotional bonds, enhancing the sense of purpose for the carer.

Pop Culture

  • Television series like 'Nurse Jackie' and 'The Good Doctor' highlight the challenges and triumphs of caregiving in the healthcare field.
  • Movies portraying caring relationships often focus on the themes of sacrifice and love, showcasing the vital role of caregivers in society.
  • Documentaries about caregivers often focus on their challenges, shedding light on the backbone of health systems.

Science

  • Studies in gerontology emphasize the crucial role of caregivers in optimizing quality of life for aging populations.
  • Caregiving has been shown to be a factor affecting physical health, leading to discussions about the need for support systems for those in this role.
  • Research indicates that adequate support and training for caregivers can lead to improved health outcomes for care recipients.

Translations

Translations of the word "carer" in other languages:

🇵🇹 cuidador

🇮🇳 देखभाल करने वाला

🇩🇪 Betreuer

🇮🇩 perawat

🇺🇦 допомогач

🇵🇱 opiekun

🇯🇵 ケア提供者

🇫🇷 aidant

🇪🇸 cuidador

🇹🇷 bakıcı

🇰🇷 돌보미

🇸🇦 مقدم الرعاية

🇨🇿 pečovatel

🇸🇰 opatrovateľ

🇨🇳 护理人员

🇸🇮 oskrbovalec

🇮🇸 umsjónarmaður

🇰🇿 күтуші

🇬🇪 მზრუნველი

🇦🇿 bağışlayan

🇲🇽 cuidador

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #26,779, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.