Research shows that the number one risk factor for developing cancer is age. A whopping 60% of new cancer diagnoses each year occur in seniors over the age of 65. And 66 is the median age for getting cancer. If you are a family caregiver for a senior parent, there is a strong possibility that your loved one will develop some form of cancer in their senior years.
Family caregivers can’t cure cancer. But there are things that you can do to support your parent in their fight against cancer. One of the best things that you can do to help a senior parent fight cancer is bring in elder care.
Seniors who have elder care will have consistent reliable support at home. Your senior parent won’t have to worry about things like housework or shopping while they are fighting cancer if they have elder care. Some other things that family caregivers can do to help seniors fight cancer include:
Emotional Support
One of the best things that family caregivers can do is provide emotional support for their senior parent. Seniors who are fighting cancer experience a wide range of emotions. It’s not uncommon for seniors with cancer to experience including fear, anxiety, sadness, and uncertainty. Family members can offer a listening ear, understanding, and empathy to the senior with cancer. Simply being there to talk and express feelings can provide immense comfort and reassurance.
Go To Medical Appointments
If you work it can be tough to get time off to take your senior parent to medical appointments, but if you can swing it that’s a great way to help. Having a family member go with them to appointments ensures that seniors have someone to take notes, ask questions, and advocate for their needs during consultations with healthcare providers.
Help With Medication Management
Cancer treatment often involves taking a lot of medications, and seniors may need help keeping the medication straight. Family members can help by setting up pill organizers, reminding the senior to take medications, and keeping track of any side effects or changes in medication schedules. An elder care provider can also help with medication management.
Transportation To Appointments
Cancer treatment can involve frequent visits to hospitals or treatment centers. Family members can help by providing transportation to these appointments, ensuring the senior arrives on time and reducing the stress of traveling.
Getting Professional Help
Seniors who are fighting cancer may benefit from professional mental health care. Talking to a trained counselor or psychiatrist can help seniors process their feelings and deal with their diagnosis their own way.
Preparing for End-of-Life Discussions
If the cancer is advanced or terminal, family members can help the senior prepare for end-of-life discussions and decisions. This may involve discussing preferences for hospice care, palliative care, or final arrangements.
Sources:
https://www.webmd.com/cancer/cancer-incidence-age
https://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/causes-prevention/risk/age
https://www.roswellpark.org/cancertalk/202006/does-cancer-risk-increase-age
If you or an aging loved one are considering elder care in Davis, NC, please contact the caring staff at East Carolina Home Care today. New Bern area: (252) 814-6289, Morehead area: (252) 240-1234.
Providing quality home care for seniors and families in and around Vanceboro, Havelock, Atlantic Beach, Newport, Harlowe, Emerald Isle, Cape Carteret, Otway, Harkers Island, Davis, Pine Knoll Shores, Fairfield Harbour, Trentwoods, James City, New Bern, Morehead City, and surrounding areas in North Carolina.
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