National Family Caregivers Month

November is National Family Caregivers Month, a time to recognize and honor the millions of unpaid family caregivers who look after loved ones with chronic illnesses, disabilities, or frailty. The month aims to raise awareness about caregiving issues and provide support, resources, and appreciation for caregivers’ hard work and dedication.

Cancer Support Can Be Especially Grueling

Cancer caregiver support is challenged by emotional distress, physical toll, financial burdens, and the practical difficulties of managing medical tasks and coordinating care. Caregivers often experience psychological strain like anxiety and depression, physical issues such as fatigue and sleep problems, and financial strain from lost income or out-of-pocket costs. The complex and time-consuming nature of managing medications, symptoms, and communicating with medical teams adds to these challenges. 

Challenges of Caring for Cancer Patients at Home

As more cancer care is delivered in outpatient treatment centers, the burden on cancer caregivers is evolving. In the past, more people with cancer received more of their care in hospitals, where trained doctors and nurses oversee treatment. Now it’s more common for patients to be cared for at home during their treatments and in the months after, requiring caregivers to track dozens of medications, deal with side effects, navigate insurance and communicate with extended family and friends, among other responsibilities.

Care for Yourself so You Can Care for Them

Caregivers often push past their own limits. Supporting someone with cancer is emotionally and physically demanding — and burnout helps no one.

Below are some helpful strategies from the Caregiver Action Network.

Source: Caregiver Action Network.org

Helpful Resources

There are numerous free resources and support services available to caregivers. Below are a few:

Caregiver Support Video Series

The American Cancer Society has a video series is to provide educational support to caregivers as they assist with the everyday needs of cancer patients and provide self-care techniques to improve their quality of life. 

Topics include:

• Physical Care Training: drain care, lifting, pain management, medication management, symptom/side effect management, and identifying signs of infection.
• Caregiver Self-Care: nutrition, physical activity, stress management and coping, dealing with fear of recurrence, and deep breathing/meditation.
• Advocacy: how to effectively communicate your loved one’s needs to the cancer care team.
• Caregiver Stories: caregivers share their experiences through the ups and downs of their journey.

Click here for the Video Series.

You Are Not Alone!

At ECHO, we realize the incredible strain and exhaustion of being a cancer caregiver. Our whole team is here to help. Our social worker is available to meet with families. Our doctors and nurses are available to answer your questions and concerns. Please let us know how we can continue to provide the ongoing support you need.