MultiCare Health System

• MultiCare Regional Cancer Center
• The Dr. Richard C. Ostenson Cancer Center
• Types of Cancer
• Patient Resources
• Find a Location
• Cancer Care Guide
  • The Healing Environment
  • Understanding Cancer
  • Wellness and Support Services
  • Keeping Track of My Care
  • The Caregivers
    • Caring For the Caregiver
    • Anticipatory Grief
    • How to Help Our Loved Ones
    • Helping Children Understand and Cope
     
  • Managing Your Symptoms and Improving Your Health
  • Cancer Services and Resouces
  • Legal Considerations
  • Comfort Care
  • Glossary of Cancer Related Terms
   
 

The Caregivers

A cancer diagnosis not only affects the patient. It also affects the caregiver(s). Fatigue, or even burnout, can be brought on by the physical and emotional aspects of caring for a loved one with cancer. Often, it’s possible to arrange for help with physical care, but it’s almost impossible to pay for emotional support when the caregiver is too physically exhausted to provide that vital care component.

As a caregiver, remember to care for yourself, as well. It not only benefits your physical and emotional well being, but also that of the individual you are caring for. Here are some valuable tips to help you care for yourself:

• Take time for yourself and your own needs. Watch for signs of stress, such as impatience, loss of appetite, or difficulty sleeping, concentrating or remembering. Be aware of any changes in your mood, decreased interest in your regular activities, or inability to accomplish usual tasks.
• Eat a well-balanced diet. Drink plenty of water or juice every day.
• Exercise by taking short walks daily or at least three times a week.
• Listen to relaxation tapes or music to help reduce stress.
• Space your activities with short rest periods. Get a good night’s sleep.
• Set limits with your loved ones. Determine what self-care tasks he/she can perform.
• Don’t overload your daily list of “things to do.” Be realistic. You may be trying to provide the same care it takes three shifts of professionals to do in a care facility.
• Find time to do activities that are meaningful and pleasurable to you several times a week. Even a short diversion can be relaxing.
• Let family members and friends help. Delegate household chores, meals, childcare, or shopping. Check into respite care options.
• Keep the lines of communication open between your loved ones, your family and friends and the oncology staff.
• Share your feelings with family members or other caregivers, or join a support group.
• Give yourself credit. The care you give yourself makes a difference.
• Continue your spiritual life and actively seek comfort from it.