Caring for Seniors with Mesothelioma
Are you a caregiver now caring for a senior loved one who has mesothelioma? This type of cancer is relatively rare in the United States. It tends to affect older people like seniors more than younger generations.
I’ve worked for ten years providing care for Patty, a grandmother with mesothelioma. It can be challenging work sometimes. Still, providing for the everyday needs of cancer survivors has been one of the most rewarding experiences ever.
Working as a caregiver has been a fascinating experience. I’ve learned so much information, like the different mesothelioma stages. I think this knowledge has helped me provide better care for adults with this type of cancer.
If you are starting as a caregiver, you may have several questions. How much research should caregivers do about mesothelioma? Do caregivers need help with assisting mesothelioma patients? How can caregivers make it easier for mesothelioma patients? Are mesothelioma caregivers likely to have health issues, too? What are the challenges that older adults with mesothelioma face?
In this article, I’ll discuss tips for improving care for seniors with mesothelioma, such as researching about the condition, asking questions and getting help when necessary, taking everything gradually, and remembering your health.
Receiving Care After Your Mesothelioma Diagnosis
I remember when Patty received her mesothelioma diagnosis. She experienced some anxiety and stress. She’d tell me how worried she was about her future including medical care and treatment.
I’ve read that it’s pretty common to experience emotional and mood changes after a cancer diagnosis. A major issue is how the cancer survivor deals with such emotions.
When I decided to become a caregiver for patients with malignant mesothelioma, I didn’t know what to expect. I think it’s commendable for loved ones to decide to provide care for their friends or relatives with this type of cancer.
Still, remember that being a mesothelioma caregiver can be challenging, stressful, or even frustrating. Sometimes I love helping Patty, and other times, I question if the challenging times make being a caregiver worthwhile.
However, you also have an excellent opportunity to share your loved one’s experiences as they battle cancer. You can also help meet their daily needs and make their lives a little easier. From my experience, those are some of the most rewarding results.
During the past decade, I’ve gained much experience treating mesothelioma patients more effectively. I hope these tips that I’ve learned can help you be a better caregiver for your loved one.
Tips for Caregivers Treating Mesothelioma Patients
Here are some of my best practical tips for helping treat mesothelioma patients more effectively.
Research About the Condition
As a certified caregiver, I’d already completed courses about providing care for cancer patients. Still, you can always learn something new. I already had some basic knowledge about cancer, but I’ve learned a lot more about mesothelioma.
While there are various causes of this type of cancer, asbestos is among the main ones. Asbestos exposure can cause numerous health issues, including lung cancer.
People who have had asbestos exposure should consult a healthcare provider about possible medical conditions.
After seniors develop mesothelioma, they can experience various symptoms. They include:
- Coughing
- Shortness of breath
- Chest pain
I’ve also learned that understanding this type of cancer is critical to helping loved ones make the best treatment decisions to improve their health and wellness.
My care receiver Patty found a support group through her physician, and I’ve noticed the benefits of this group to her mental health and wellness. After a support group session, Patty often seems more positive and relaxed.
Ask Questions and Get Help When Necessary
I’ve been working as a caregiver for a decade, yet I’m constantly learning something about mesothelioma.
The main takeaway is you can find any information you need from reliable sources. When talking to doctors, ensure that you’re always open and honest.
Here’s why. Doctors may have solutions to situations you’re experiencing with the care receiver. That said, you’ll need to ask the right questions to get the answers you need. That’s why I provide all the relevant information when I talk to Patty’s doctor.
A similar tip I’d share is to ask for help when you need it. Unfortunately, medical researchers haven’t found a cure for mesothelioma. I’ve experienced that it’s become tougher to help my care receiver as her cancer has become more aggressive.
I’ve joined a support system that’s made a big difference in the care I’ve been able to provide. Don’t hesitate to ask for the help of friends and family of the care receiver.
From my experience, they’re often willing to provide whatever assistance is needed. It’s just a matter of asking how the loved ones can help. One method I’ve found that works well is scheduling a meeting with them in person or through a chat platform.
Take Everything Gradually and Remember Your Health
Taking on a new position as a caregiver can be quite challenging. I remember when I started, everything seemed overwhelming.
You’re going to make mistakes because everyone does that sometimes. The key is to talk to get feedback from your loved one.
Ironically, sometimes caregivers can neglect their health. Make sure to take care of your health and wellness. For example, eat healthy meals and get enough sleep.
I’ve found that taking breaks during the day and planning some “me time” in the evenings can be effective. Taking these basic steps can help to deal with stress and prevent fatigue.
Self-care is also critical for caregivers of cancer survivors. Make sure to pamper yourself sometimes to help maintain your physical and mental well-being.
Make sure to know the signs and symptoms of caregiver stress and burnout. This process can help you recognize that you’re getting stressed out.
When that happens, I’ve found that options like breathing exercises and aromatherapy can help to destress. Whenever I feel stressed, I take deep breaths and focus on inhaling and exhaling.
References
1. Key Statistics About Malignant Mesothelioma