A Guide for Cancer Caregivers
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Duties of the Caregiver
A caregiver is usually a close relative of a cancer patient who gives them physical assistance and emotional support throughout treatment. The caregiver role begins once cancer or treatments begin to interfere with the patient's daily life. Caregivers have many responsibilities and are a key member of the healthcare team. Some of these responsibilities may include:
- Shopping for the patient
- Driving the patient to appointments
- Cooking meals for the patient
- Helping to bathe and dress the patient
- Cleaning for the patient
- Paying bills for the patient
- Administering medication to the patient
Communicating with the Patient
You must remember to communicate with the patient throughout this process, to find out how much help they want from you and what level of assistance they need. Some patients want to stay informed and be very involved with their treatment, whereas others feel overwhelmed and can only cope with the most basic information. Ask the patient what they want and what you can do to make their life easier, but only do what is asked of you. If you take too much responsibility away from the patient, they may feel helpless and powerless. Allow the patient to plan their day and make important treatment decisions.
Communicating with the Treatment Team
It is important to establish good relationships with the rest of the healthcare team in order to provide the best and most efficient care for the patient. Here are some helpful tips for communicating with doctors:
- Ask the doctor to be open, forthright, and practical.
- Write questions down so you won't forget them.
- Be clear and concise. Try not to ramble to the doctor.
- Make a consultation appointment for the doctor to answer all your questions.
- Learn more about your loved one's disease.
- Know the role of each member of the treatment team.
- Thank the doctors for their help from time to time.
Caregiver Burnout
Caring for someone with cancer is a huge responsibility that can sometimes feel like a full-time job. Many caregivers want to be there for their loved ones 24 hours a day, but must also attend to their usual responsibilities. You may feel like you don’t have the time or energy to deal with all your duties. Caregivers who ignore their own needs can end up burned out, sick, and depressed themselves. Here are some symptoms of caregiver burnout:
Irritability, losing patience easily, emotional ups and downs
Insomnia, difficulty sleeping
Appetite changes (you eat a lot more or a lot less than normal)
Increased substance use (alcohol, drugs, or smoking)
Feelings of guilt or resentment
Feeling overwhelmed, unable to balance role with other responsibilities
Depression, withdrawal from friends and activities
Trouble thinking clearly, difficulty making decisions
Stomach problems, or feeling unwell
Caring for Yourself
It can also be a very rewarding experience to care for someone you love. Here are some tips to take care of your physical and emotional health and avoid burnout.
- Get plenty of exercise.
- Eat a nutritious diet.
- Get enough sleep.
- Keep up with your own doctor’s appointments and medications.
- Practice meditation or yoga.
- Make time for your favorite activities and hobbies.
- Join a support group.
- Talk to a family member. Ask for help.
- Pray, meditate or read religious material.
- Take a break.
- Keep a journal.
- Consider getting professional help.
Useful Information and Important Documents
Here are some important pieces of information to have on hand when caring for a loved one:
- Social Security and Medicare numbers, birth and marriage certificates, passports.
- Primary and secondary insurance information.
- Bank accounts, account numbers, credit card information, etc.
- Motor vehicle registration.
- Titles and leases.
- Tax returns and records.
- Durable power of attorney, living will, or other advanced directive.
