Hi all, So I’ve been advised on perhaps thinking about a less physically challenging job, I am a dementia carer working (was, been off sick for weeks!) full time, my shifts are 36 hours 3 x 12 hours, 8-8 shifts yes it’s hard going, on my feet all day with only a 30 minute break & that’s around 2/3pm. I love my job But is it going to be doable when I return, that is my worry. Even if I were to do half shifts that would mean working more days to make up my hours & I know that will be more tiring, as I’ve done it before. It’s not the kind of job where changes can be made for me as its pretty full on all day, everyday. I don’t want an office job, I need to be up & about but I really don’t know what kind of role I would be suited too. Does anyone have any advise on their experiences with work & having to change jobs/roles completely to suit your “new lifestyle” as such? Not dx as of yet but I feel I am close! Well I’m hopeful! Mrs C xx
Not sure I can advise really. I was lucky in that the job I was doing when I was diagnosed was in a brand new area that lots of companies were interested in so I was able to set up as a consultant, working very part-time, but earning good money. From that, I moved into academia which was much less stressful and easier on my symptoms.
I guess it depends on what you are qualified to do and want to do. Would it be possible to go into training people about dementia care? I realise that you don’t want an office job, but perhaps there is one that you would enjoy despite the four walls? Maybe work for a charity, using your hands-on knowledge? Ultimately though, you need to do something that will allow you to stay as well as possible and enjoy life. That might mean less job satisfaction, but it’s really life satisfaction that’s important.
Karen x
Thank You Karen for your wise words, your paragrah “Ultimately though, you need to do something that will allow you to stay as well as possible and enjoy life. That might mean less job satisfaction, but it’s really life satisfaction that’s important.” Has put things into perspective for me & I Thank You for that! Unfortunately my qualifications don’t take me into being able to teach people about dementia. The other qualifications I have are in fitness, which I know I won’t be able to keep up with 
I’ll have to have a look around at finding something that’s physical yet not too much, I don’t want to seize up altogether which is my fear as I’ve always been active. Mrs C xx
Hi Mrs C, have you thought about working with people with learning difficulties (not challenging) I worked with people with dementia for a good few years and it is very hard work. I now manage to small services for adults with ld and it is so much easier. There is always a better ratio of staff which in itself makes the work less stressful and not as hectic. Pm me if you want anymore info, the company I work for as homes all over the country. Good luck. Karen x
Hi Karen, Thank you for your reply, I’ve looked into that role before but the hours don’t suit my childcare needs & husbands working hours as they all require weekends/sleep ins. Mrs C xx
Hi Mrs C, I don’t have a diagnosis of what is wrong with me yet but have been getting worse and worse with numbness and pain down the left side of my back and my left arm for over a year. Its a continuous progression and I have now had to take time off as I am in a lot of pain and have lost a lot of strength in my left arm. I’m a staff nurse on a busy surgical ward and cannot physically do my job at the moment. I’m not at a point yet where im thinking I need to leave my job but it has certainly crossed my mind that if it continues to progress as it had for the last 12-13 months then I may not be able to continue!
Unfortunately, work is not my only challenge, I have a 14 month old toddler, and I can’t stop that job! 
I’m only 29 and have only been a qualified nurse for 6 years, I don’t really want to give it up yet!
Good luck in your decisions.
Natalie