According to the World Health Organization, cancer accounts for nearly 10 million deaths annually. All these patients require a caregiver during the recovery journey. However, caregiving has its challenges, and most people are usually unprepared for this role. As a caregiver, it’s important to adapt to changes, be patient, and invent ways to make the role manageable.
Stay Organized
Keep the medical records, appointment dates, medication, and test results safely. Create a reminder of appointment dates. In addition, make a list of daily tasks starting with the most important. A timetable will guide and make things easier.
Gather Information
Learn about your loved one’s cancer, treatment options, and side effects. It’s best to understand the disease and what to expect. Ask your doctor at the cancer care center Orange County-based about everything you need to know.
Accept The Patient’s Bad Days
The patient may be sad, angry, stressed, or having a bad day. If you see them angry, don’t take things personally and give them space if needed. Try to be kind and always assure them you are available.
Be Kind To Yourself
As a caregiver, you may feel pressured to be perfect. After a mistake, you may feel guilty and blame yourself. Let go of guilt and be gentle with yourself. Take some time off and hang out with friends or get a massage. Avoid burnout at all costs and care for your mental and physical health.
Stay Connected
It’s emotionally draining when your loved ones get cancer. You may find it hard to express your feelings to the patient. The best way is to talk to others who have similar experiences. This will help cope with stress, loneliness, and uncertainty. Look for a cancer community near you or an affiliate network.
Caregiving is not easy. You have to care for your loved one’s health and juggle between your work and family responsibilities. Cancer care demands depend on the state of the patient, stage of disease, and treatment side effects. A caregiver should positively respond to the cancer journey and offer the best support.
