At some point your care role may change or end. The person you care for may improve so much they need far less care than they first did after leaving hospital.

Sadly sometimes the person may not be able to cope at home even with additional help and equipment if they require at least two carers for all their personal care needs.They may be terminally ill and require more intensive medical or nursing care. At this point you may need to consider your options for alternative care.

This is a difficult time for you and for them. You may feel that you are no longer able to give the care they need but still have mixed feelings about this. They will need time to adjust.

Talk to the person realistically about the future for both of you. If they are unwilling to discuss any other options you should get help. Family members, your GP, social worker or even another carer could be useful in helping you to talk through this difficult situation.

If the person is facing end of life care in hospital, at home or in a hospice you will need support not only for them but also for you. If you have been a full time carer suddenly you will have much more time in your day but at the same time not being sure about how you want to move on with your own needs. You may need time to grieve. At first there will be many arrangements to make but later the reality of  your loss may take time to adjust.

Your finances may change if you have been receiving carers allowance or other benefits.

You may want to consider new goals for yourself. Learning a new skill, going back to work or changing your working hours. Doing some voluntary work to go out and meet people or even using your skills as a carer to help or advise others who are now in your position. Only you will know when you are ready to move on and look ahead.

Cruse Scotland provides support after a bereavement. Their help line is 0845 600 2227