You should be aware that you are not alone if you are over 65 and have received a cancer diagnosis. In actuality, those with cancer and those who have survived it tend to be older than 65. Among the challenges older people who have survived cancer experience are
- Quick decisions have long-term consequences. The immediacy with which treatment choices are frequently required is a key factor to take into account for older persons who have been diagnosed with cancer.
- Cancer is frequently discovered in older patients when they see a doctor for a symptom and it turns out to be cancer. After then, they might have to decide within a few days or weeks on important aspects of their care. While those choices might help save their lives, they can occasionally have unexpected long-term effects. During and after therapy, older persons frequently feel like they have no physical control over their bodies.
- Locating the “right” form of assistance. Home Health care facilities, particularly ones that involve senior citizens, can be beneficial and offer valuable advice. But older persons also desire new strategies for providing and receiving help.
- Continuous aftercare. The new normal involves changing one’s way of life and resolving to continue seeing a doctor after treatment is over. This is essential for identifying and treating late effects, spotting a potential reappearance, or early detection of a new tumor. Drugs that have saved a life may also put people at higher risk for chronic illnesses like diabetes or cardiovascular disease. Many years are still ahead of older adult survivors, therefore it may be even more important for them to develop healthy lifestyles that include lots of exercise and a good, well-balanced diet.
How to stay safe and independent during cancer treatment
When someone has cancer, they require special attention. Those who receive a cancer diagnosis after turning 65 may worry more about retaining their independence and feeling secure at home while receiving cancer treatment.
There are ways that family, friends, and professionals can help:
- Providing transportation to and from appointments
- Helping with daily household activities, including personal care
- Helping with daily household activities, including personal care
- Making sure medications at home are taken on schedule and tracking side effects
- Helping with meals, including grocery shopping and meal preparation
- Making changes at home to reduce the risk of falls
- Providing companionship and other social and emotional support
- Arranging for spiritual support
How to take care of your mental health
Many people struggle to cope with the stress and other mental and emotional difficulties brought on by cancer at any age. It’s possible that when you were growing up, people did not talk about their depression or anxiety. You might also be concerned about using prescription drugs for it or consulting a mental health expert. However, maintaining your mental health is just as crucial as maintaining your physical health.
It is typical to face emotional difficulties while battling cancer. Anxiety is more than simply being concerned, and melancholy is more than just being depressed. They may be major problems requiring assistance. These mental disorders can cause mild to severe symptoms. When they are severe, they have an impact on your daily life and relationships. Learn more about recognizing and treating depression and anxiety.
Athulya Home Healthcare, which believes that everyone should be able to receive the care they need without leaving their home. To help our patients perform better every day, we collaborate with them.
Our comprehensive strategy improves quality of life by putting a strong emphasis on wellbeing. We assist them in coping with stress, discomfort, adverse effects of treatment, etc. Additionally, we assist the patient’s family in organizing various medical services and comprehending the treatment plan and its anticipated results at home.
