How to care for Caretakers of Cancer survivors.
Cancer destroys emotional and physical health not only in the person who is suffering from it but also affects the cancer survivors. In this situation, caretakers help a lot to restore emotional health as well as peace of mind. As they perform such an important job, how to take care of them?
Cancer is a disease that often involves a series of losses, such as the loss of good health, temporary or permanent changes to your appearance, not being able to work or participate in normal activities, changed finances, a loss of independence, changed relationships, and change even in yourself.
People who are diagnosed with cancer not only struggle with intense feelings of fear, stress, and anxiety. But it impacts the survivor's life too. According to a research review, Cancer survivors are more likely to experience anxiety, depression, sleep troubles, and other mental health issues than the person who has not been diagnosed with the disease.
As life is affected so much by cancer so you need someone who can support you mentally as well as physically. Caregivers are usually the people who support you mentally and physically so that you will live a normal life once again. In most cases, the primary caregiver is a spouse, partner, parent, adult child or it can be someone you hire or a nurse.
Caretakers are responsible for:
Personal care
Household tasks
Medical care
Emotional support
Advocating
How to take caregivers:
Some of the ways you should adopt to take care of your caregivers are:
Listen attentively.
Don’t tell horror stories
Don’t be judgmental.
Ask what they need.
Give them space
Offer the gift of your time.
Bring food
Don’t make more work for them.
Arrange respite care.
Cancer affects mental and physical health so badly that its impact remains after the treatment. Cancer survivors suffer from anxiety, depression emotional distress, so they need someone who can support them emotionally and physically as well. Caregivers are usually the person who takes care of them. As they do such important job, so its responsibility to take care for them. Try to listen to them carefully, give them space, and ask what they need.
Remember: this post is for informational purposes only and may not be the best fit for you and your personal situation. It shall not be construed as medical advice. The information and education provided here is not intended or implied to supplement or replace professional medical treatment, advice, and/or diagnosis. Always check with your own physician or medical professional before trying or implementing any information read here.