Page 12 - Senior Times South Central Michigan - October 2017 - 24-10

Page 12 Senior Times - October 2017
THE POWER OF A CAREGIVER
By: Katie Jones, American Cancer Society
This means someone is needed to be part of the day-to-day care of the person with cancer and that sicker people are being cared for
at home. As a result, caregivers have many roles. These roles change as the patient’s needs change during and after cancer treat- ment. Caregivers serve as home health aides and companions. They may help feed, dress, and bathe the patient. Caregivers arrange schedules, manage insurance issues, and provide transportation. They are legal assis- tants, financial managers, and housekeepers. They often have to take over the duties of the person with cancer, and still meet the needs of other family members.
Caring for someone with cancer can be very stressful. Their busy schedule may not leave time for them to take care of their own needs. Therefore, it is important that while they are helping their loved one, they must also take care of themselves. This means get- ting enough sleep and exercise, eating well, seeing the doctor when needed, and keeping to normal routines as much as possible.
Caregivers should not feel guilty or self- ish when they take time for themselves. By doing so, they will have the energy needed to take care of their loved one.
Despite the demands and stress of caring for someone who has cancer, being a caregiv- er can be satisfying. Still, at some point there will be just too much for one person to do so be sure to ask for help. This can take off some of the pressure and give time back to the care- giver. Family and friends often want to help but may not know what you need so look for areas where they can step in and make a list. Be very clear with what is needed.
Cancer affects not only the person with cancer, but also that person’s loved ones. The caregiver is often a key part of the patient’s care. Caregivers may be partners, family members, or close friends. Most often, they’re not trained for this role. Many times, they are the lifeline for the person with cancer. Caregivers have a huge influence
on how the cancer patient deals with their illness. Their encouragement can help the patient stick with a demanding treatment plan and take other steps to get well, like eating healthy meals or getting enough rest. Good, reliable caregiver support is crucial to the physical and emotional well-being of people with cancer.
Cancer patients sometimes have to rely on a team of caregivers. Linda Lane-Brunson was 29 years old when she was diagnosed with breast cancer. “It was rare for someone
my age to have breast cancer, and no one talked about it if they had it. My mother
had passed away in 1973 and I was a young widow with two young children. It meant everything to me to have my family support me during this period. My daughters were very young and my sister and niece took care of them when I went into the hospital for surgery to have my breast removed. My fam- ily and family friends prayed for me daily and they were always there for me. Fortunately,
I didn’t have to get Chemo or radiation after surgery. The surgery had removed the cancer. I only needed therapy on my right arm. I am so grateful for my family and friends sup- port. I could not have survived without them. I have been a survivor for over 35 years. Thanks be to God!”
Today, most cancer treatment is given in outpatient treatment centers – not in hospitals.
SENIOR COMMUNITY
Enjoy unique and affordable senior living at Westbrook Place. Ideally situated in a convenient neighborhood setting. Linear and Irving Parks are just steps away, and you’re a short distance from the Veterans Center and Battle Creek Health Systems. Located on Emmett Street just west of North Avenue.
UTILITIES INCLUDED IN RENT
183 West Street, Battle Creek, MI 49037
PH (269) 753-0062 TDD/TTY 711 westbrookplace@kmgprestige.com
Classic Architecture, Classy Apartments