Cancer is a frightening and devastating disease that impacts health, finances, and family. Aging parents may already have other health issues, but now have to deal with chemotherapy and a loss of income. Their children, who may be adults with their own children, have to figure out how they can manage the care of their loved ones when they have so many competing needs of their own. Here are a few things that can help right off the bat.
Locate Resources In Your Area
Nonprofits that deal with cancer patients can be a great resource when it comes to figuring out how to go about getting help. They can direct you to financial resources to help pay medical bills. They can also educate the family on the stages of a particular cancer and the appropriate treatments available.
Identify Their Family of Caregivers
This should be done early on, once the diagnosis has been made. You may find that the term “family” is a lot bigger than just blood relatives. There may be friends, neighbors, or associates who want to be involved in the care cycle in some small way. If they are kept in the loop, they can help too. Get their contact information and ask them if they want to help with rides or meals.
Organize Community Caregiving
Hold a meeting to determine the needs and how they will be met. Use technology to set up a blog or shared calendar to keep multiple people apprised of what is going on with their care. Set up a community of caregivers, not just one person, who can provide different necessities on a rotating schedule, like meals, transportation, house-cleaning, and check-ins.
Ask for Financial Assistance
If someone in the family can’t be there physically, often they can help by providing some financial support for medications or treatments. Don’t be afraid to start a GoFundMe page. Check out programs that offer financial assistance. Siblings can help with actual bill-paying.
Hire Some Help for Times You Can’t Do It All
You may need to hire nursing or non-medical help for times when no one else is available. They can help in situations where others may not be comfortable, like bathing or administering medications. They can monitor diet and keep track of progress. They can offer rides and assistance.
Be Present and Stay Positive
Stay positive and take time to indulge in luxuries, watch movies, laugh, hold hands, or whatever makes you feel good. Sit with them during chemotherapy or provide them with a tablet so they can stream their favorite movies. Remember that emotional support is just as important as physical or financial support and can make a big difference.
Author Bio
Andy James is a fun, adventure loving and professional blogger. He is a story teller and loves to help others find a better way to live. He is a great writer and loves to write about anything that is appealing to her. At present, He is working with
Home Care Assistance of Dallas and also fulfilling her own desire to help others.
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