Care can be provided in different ways: informally by a family member or friend, or formally through primary and secondary care, social care or medical care . Primary care is a GP, dentist or optician – the people you usually see when you first have a problem (K101, unit 2, p. 74). Secondary care refers to any other healthcare professionals you may come into contact with after participating in primary care. There will always be a relationship established when care is involved, and the quality of this relationship can be an important factor on the quality of care provided. Caring informally or formally can be both physically and emotionally demanding. The person requiring care may experience a range of negative emotions and feelings such as fear, loss of independence and helplessness. The caregiver must be able to recognize these feelings and demonstrate empathy, patience, respect and kindness. Practical skills are also necessary. For example, the ability to administer medications safely, meet intimate personal needs, be familiar with specialized equipment, have a certain degree of physical strength, and understand professional boundaries. Ann was caring for her father-in-law Angus (K101, Unit 1) as he fell ill with Parkinson's disease. During this period, Ann and her family lived with him and so his care was informal. Initially, she did not consider herself a caregiver. This had an impact on her health because she did not seek help for this situation. Ann has helped Angus with his personal care (which can be a challenge for both parties), his mobility, and most of his basic needs. She became tired and impatient, and her mood deteriorated. Caring for Angus was both physically and emotionally demanding. Angus could clearly feel the changes in An...... middle of paper ......y K101: An Introduction to Health and Social Care Unit 2, Milton Keynes, the Open University.The Open University 2011 K101: An Intro to Health and Social Care DVD, Block 1, Unit 1, 1:3 audio Angus' Wash, Milton Keynes, The Open University. The Open University K101: An Introduction to Health and Social Care Unit 3, Milton Keynes, the Open University. The Open University 2011 K101: An introduction to health and social care DVD, Block 1, Unit 3, Video 3:5, Maria goes shopping with Lyn, Milton Keynes, The Open University. Johnson & de Souza (2008), Understanding Health and Social Care (2nd edition), chapter 6, London, SAGE. The Open University K101: An Introduction to Health and Social Care Unit 4, Milton Keynes, The Open University.