As the needs and symptoms of the cancer patient fluctuate, so do the needs and well-being of the caregiver.
Taking care of yourself equals taking care of your loved one. Caregivers sometimes focus so intently on the physical wellbeing of their loved one that they lose sight of their own physical wellness.
Overeating can be especially tempting when experiencing intense emotions. Get into a routine of eating meals on time Make a grocery list and stick to it Snack on healthy foods
Caregivers are often given the task of reminding their loved one to drink fluids. Commit to drinking just as much as you’re asking your loved one to drink. Water bottles with pre-labeled measurements are a great way to stay hydrated. Try to stay away from sugary or caffeinated beverages and stick to water when you can.
Since exercise is connected to our energy levels and our mental health, exercise is essential for caregivers. It's one of the ways to boost your immune system. Get started with a routine you can manage and enjoy. Whenever possible, opt to exercise outside. Mix it up: walking, gardening, stretching, yoga –any activity counts!
Without adequate sleep, caregivers cannot expect to provide adequate care. Difficulty falling asleep, difficulty staying asleep, nightmares or night terrors, or sleeping too much. If these issues persist for longer than a month, talk to your primary care provider.
It’s common for caregivers to forgo their own medical care when taking on the caregiving role. Unfortunately, this often creates problems that interfere with your caregiving responsibilities long-term. Put yourself first and prioritize your doctor appointments, routine screenings, and follow-up care.
Certified oncology social worker Danielle Peterson hosts a conversation with two colorectal cancer caregivers, Lindsay Rosenbaum and Brian Ruddle. Tune in to hear their advice on how to maintain your mental and physical health as a caregiver.
The Colorectal Cancer Alliance is urging Americans to prioritize colorectal cancer screening, as the American Cancer Society (ACS) released updated guidelines today.
For many cancer patients, the end of active treatment brings a new kind of dread. Scans every few months and anxious waits for results. A blood test is changing that experience for a growing number of patients.
When Helen was diagnosed with metastatic colorectal cancer, the biggest concern for her medical team was that her cancer had spread to her liver. One type of therapy, hepatic artery infusion, offered a path forward, but there was a catch. Nobody at her hospital had ever done it before. She'd have to be first.