You are a caregiver if you're helping your family member or friend through cancer treatment. This may mean helping with daily activities such as making a meal, homemaking, and going to the doctor. It could also mean coordinating services and care Or it may be giving emotional and spiritual support.
Some pointers to assist you in your role as a caregiver.
- Everyone involved is taken aback by a lung cancer diagnosis, and it takes time to adapt. Keep that in mind as you and your loved ones settle into your new lifestyle.
- Know more about your loved one's diagnosis and treatment options. The more you learn, the more effective you'll be. You don't need to know everything at once.
- Try to keep a positive attitude and a sense of humor, it's beneficial to both you and the person you're caring for.
Plan to spend time together outside like going to a movie or spending time outdoors so it will remind both of you that you have a relationship separate from lung cancer.
- Don't be afraid to talk about future plans, have hope for the future.
- Participate in actively in-clinic visits. Take notes and ask questions. Bring a printable list of questions to your doctor visits.
- Encourage your loved one to indulge in his or her usual activities as much as possible.
- You may find that friends and family members are eager to pitch in once you tell them specifically what you need to ask other people to help. Make a list of tasks for which people can sign up.
- Seek out other lung cancer caregivers - It helps to talk to people who know first hand what you're going through. The LifeLine Program at LUNGevity will connect you with a volunteer support partner.
- Know your boundaries and be honest with yourself about how much time and energy you can devote.
- Become a member of a support group. Support groups should meet in person, over the phone, or over the internet. Meeting them may help you gain new insights into what is happening, get ideas about how to cope, and help you know that you're not alone. Try a support group online if you can't find a group in your area.
Some caregivers say websites with support groups have helped them a lot. Where to Find a Support Group -
- Inquire about cancer support programs at your local hospital.
- Request support group details from your social worker.
- Consult with other patients who have taken part in support groups.
- Look for groups on the internet. For more ideas, search the NCI database Organizations that Provide Cancer Support Services.
Reference- 1. Caregiving Tips. (2014, August 7). LUNGevity Foundation. https://lungevity.org/for-patients-caregivers/caregiver-resource-center/caregiving-tips