Caregivers provide physical and emotional support and care to those who are ill. Whether family members, friends or professionals, it’s estimated that about one quarter of Canadians fulfil this role for care-dependent adults.
As with many conditions, caregivers play a crucial role in the overall health outcomes and quality of life for individuals diagnosed with cancer. “Caregivers may support with bathing, dressing or preparing meals,” says Dr. Madelaine Baetz-Dougan, a palliative medicine consultant at Sunnybrook. “In addition, they may advocate for their loved one, communicate regularly with them or provide practical support like transportation. Caregivers are at the core of an interprofessional support team for patients.”
The Odette Cancer Centre asked caregivers about their experiences and what advice they could provide to others to maintain their own emotional and physical wellness. Here are some common themes:
Set expectations
Have an open and honest talk with the person you are caring for. It’s important to come to a mutual agreement of what your loved one is expecting from you, and what you expect in return. This can help prevent spending time and energy on worrying about what the other person is thinking and feeling.
Write it down
Keep a journal from diagnosis onwards. This will help you keep track of symptoms, medications, changes, clinical notes and important discussions.
Eat well and stay hydrated
It’s not uncommon to miss meals when you are busy looking after someone else’s needs. Appetite can also be impacted by stress, affecting eating frequency and food choices. Try to make nutrition a priority through meal planning and healthy snacks that are easily accessible.
Take breaks
Just as people are told to put on their oxygen masks first before assisting others, the caregiver role is no different. Breaks and a change in focus, even in small amounts, can be extremely helpful.
Accept help
Get to know all the resources available to you and your loved one before you need them. Don’t wait; it’s easier to reach out when you are ok rather than when you already need them. Also, delegate tasks where you can. In the same way you are providing care, accept help for yourself to reduce other stressors in your life.
Additional resources
- Odette Cancer Centre – Patient and Family Support Program
- Canadian Cancer Society
- Government of Canada
- The Ontario Caregiver Organization
- Wellspring for Caregiver Support
- Gilda’s Club
