Understanding Your Caregiver

Your caregivers are people with needs as well. It is not easy dealing with the many changes to his/ her own lifestyle and increased tasks/ responsibilities caring for someone else. He/she may also be experiencing stress, fatigue and grief over the diagnosis of their loved one. It is not uncommon for caregivers to feel stuck between systems, personal needs, family goals and the needs of their loved one. Many caregivers often report they felt like they were thrown off the deep end of a pool having to suddenly grapple with many new demands with a loved one’s diagnosis. By understanding and supporting your caregiver as much as you can, you improve the quality of your own care an also convey compassion and kindness.

Supporting Your Caregiver

• Build a solid tag team: your caregivers need help and support to avoid caregiver burnout too. Have a few caregivers on standby so you do not have to depend only on one person. Encourage your caregivers to rest.
  
  
• Keep your caregivers informed: Provide your caregivers with up-to-date information about your cancer treatment and care, emergency numbers, medications and paperwork.
  
  
• Remember to say “thank you”: a simple gesture of appreciation can go a long way.