Going through cancer is extremely difficult. If you are a family caregiver for a senior who is living with some form of this disease, you should know that they will face challenges that are beyond the physical complications and side effects of treatments. They will also deal with emotional difficulties, and as a caregiver you will face similar issues as well. Seeking out the proper support for both of you is an essential part of approaching this journey and getting through it in the best way possible.
Use these tips to help you seek support for your senior, as well as for yourself, as they deal with cancer:
• Seek a support group. Support groups can be extremely valuable when going through a challenging time, particularly one like fighting cancer. This group is a place where your parent can go to interact with others who are going through the same types of things, or who have gone through them. This lets them feel less alone and discuss what they are experiencing with confidence. They can also express their emotions and find meaningful support and comfort from those who really understand.
• Inquire at the medical center. Talking to your parent’s medical team about support can give you access to support professionals you can use throughout this journey. This can include support groups, patient liaisons, financial assistance officers, spiritual guidance, and more.
• Be a support for them. Do not overlook the value that you have as a source of support for your parent. Take time to talk to them and let them express themselves. Support them and let them know that you love them and that you are there for them not just as a caregiver, but as their adult child.
Home care services can be an exceptional benefit to your parent’s life as they age in place, and to you as their family caregiver. A home care services provider can fill any care gaps that exist in the care efforts that you give to your parent, including being with them on a customized schedule to ensure that they have access to all of the care, support, and assistance that they need, when they need it. This home care services provider can work with you to design a set of highly personalized services for your parent that will ensure that their needs are handled in the way that is right for them.
This can include providing safe and reliable transportation, assisting with meal preparation, handling housekeeping tasks, supporting personal needs such as bathing, toileting, and dressing, and just being there for your parent to offer companionship for better emotional health as they age in place. This can also include offering reminders to help them to stay compliant with their medications, treatments, and lifestyle guidelines given to them by their doctor so that they can get the most benefit from these during their later years.
Sources: http://www.cancer.net/navigating-cancer-care/older-adults/aging-and-cancer
https://www.cancer.org/research/cancer-facts-statistics/all-cancer-facts-figures/cancer-facts-figures-2017.html
http://www.cancer.net/navigating-cancer-care/older-adults/cancer-care-decisions-older-adults
If you or an aging loved one are considering Home Care Services in Sharon MA, or anywhere in Eastern Massachusetts, please call the caring staff at CARE Resolutions – (508) 906-5572.
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