According to a new report, a majority of primary carers of people have disabilities and health problems of their own.

The trend is extremely high with the carers of people with arthritis and osteoporosis

As highlighted by the report from the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare the figures reveal that over 40% of the estimated 50,000 Australians who receive help from primary carers, suffered from a severe or profound disability were aged 65 years or older.

The report also highlights that more than two-thirds of the carers suffered from their own physical problems and had limitations in how they could function. Further they also needed help with the daily activities like self-care, housework, transport and mobility.

According to Dr. Naila Rahman, from the AIHW's National Centre for Monitoring Arthritis and Musculoskeletal Conditions," "As Australia's population ages, the number of people with profound or severe disability from arthritis and osteoporosis is projected to rise and the ageing of primary carers is likely to become a major issue".

Dr. Rahman further added that the primary carers of people who suffered with disability due to arthritis and osteoporosis generally consider their role of caring as a symbol of their relationship with the care receiver. They also reduce work hours or leave the paid workforce in order to meet the caring responsibilities.

The study highlighted the trend that women more often assumed the role primary carer than men.

However, it was seen that this trend reversed among carers of people with arthritis, as men made 55% of the primary carers.