We’ve got mail

Share your experiences or comment on our articles. Send stories, notes, comments and pictures to the Australian Carers Guide P O Box 6155 Wantirna Vic 3152 , or email us at editor@acguide.com.au Please note that all letters are subject to editing for publication purposes.

Carers Gateway Carers getaway really don't care. I have rung them so many times over the last year and they were always abrupt and showed no empathy at all. Really don't know why you advertise them.

Michael T, Penrith, NSW

■ Hi Michael. I'm sorry to hear about your unpleasant experiences. I must say, I was quite surprised as the majority of feedback we receive about carers gateway has been nothing but positive. Carers have found them empathetic and very helpful. Sometime it can be just an individual on a bad day. We will continue to support Carers Gateway because they provide valuable support for our unpaid carers

Being fair

As a Carer we take a lot of Pressure of the Health System. The Government need to open their eye's to all us carers do. The $600 per person who is cared for is pittance considering what a wage would cost hourly on a daily basis would cost them. Be fair government as we are being more than fare to you.

Colleen B. Joondalup, WA

■ Well said Colleen. I remember when my sister was caring for my mother full time, she had to take time off work and suffered financially for it. Although she accessed all we could from Centrelink, it was no compensation for what she lost.

4 TIPS FOR A GOOD NIGHT’S SLEEP

When life gets too busy, “sleep time” often goes by the wayside. However, prioritizing sleep is key to maintaining our health and reducing the risk high blood pressure, heart disease, obesity and diabetes. Here are some great tips to help you to get more than just 40 winks.

❶ Get it off your chest. Write down your worries early in the day, rather than waiting until bedtime. If you’ve had time to discuss concerns with loved ones and dealt with what’s bothering you, experts suggest that you’re much less likely to lie awake at night.

❶ Start early. Plan to be active and get your walks and gym-time in before dinner.

Exercising even a few hours before bed has been shown to be too stimulating for those who want a good night’s sleep.

❶ Be routine as you wind down. Try getting up and going to bed at the same time each day to set your “internal clock.” Planning quiet time before you turn the lights out can make a difference. Without screens,

To give us your feedback, please write us at Australian Carers Guide P.O. Box 6155 Wantirna VIC 3152 Or email at Editor@acguide.com.au

10 Year Celebrations

These days, there are so many carers who feel unnoticed or unappreciated. We just want to be able to give them a break, share information with them, and help them meet and chat with others like themselves. Your magazine was included in our carer appreciation bag, along with a few other little goodies. Thank you.

Sonya M, Mildura, VIC

■ Everything you have said is true. The importance of caring and the role they play is often underestimated. I’m glad we could help fill your goodie bags.

phones and other disturbances, you’re likely to feel relaxed, calm and ready to nod off.

❶ Draw the drapes and turn out the lights. A dark, cool and quiet room will provide you with the optimal sleeping environment for a good sleep each night.