Caregiving for cancer, cardiopulmonary conditions and disabilities
Caregiving for someone with a long-term or chronic condition can be a complicated responsibility. While many people find it a rewarding experience, it may also feel stressful and exhausting. Read on to learn more about support strategies and tools for caregivers, while also caring for yourself.
Cancer caregivers
Supporting someone through their cancer journey can be a long road. It’s often time consuming, emotionally and mentally taxing, and may even be financially challenging. On the other hand, you have the opportunity to be a part of a pivotal time in the person with cancer’s life.
While people with cancer are often managing feelings of grief and uncertainty, caregivers may also experience big emotions. It’s common to fear losing your loved one, potential changes in finances, and not knowing what the future holds.
Someone’s cancer journey will likely evolve over time, and so will your role. Navigating a cancer diagnosis often involves many ups and downs. Whatever the patient’s prognosis is, it’s important to continue to take care of yourself and rely on your own support system.
Cardiopulmonary caregivers
Whether your loved one is facing ongoing heart disease, a recent heart attack, recovery from surgery or a stroke, being a caregiver for someone with a cardiovascular condition is no easy feat.
You may be getting educated on the heart condition to help advocate and navigate the healthcare system. As you adjust to a new norm that could last for a period, years or decades if the condition is chronic, it’s important to pace yourself and take each day as it comes. As a caregiver, it takes time and patience to step into your role. Be sure to take advantage of resources, support groups and other loved ones to help ease the burden.
Disability caregivers
If you’re a caregiver for an adult or child with a disability, this role may look different from other caregivers. There’s a large range of conditions that may require a person to need a caregiver, including physical or cognitive disabilities. This will determine how involved your role will be.
One of the biggest differences in this type of caregiving is that there are many government programs that may help support you financially for your role as a caregiver. Financial support could be available if the disabled person has a Medicaid plan, you have long-term care insurance, the person is a veteran, or your state offers paid family leave.
Like other types of caregivers, caring for someone with a disability may be a long-term role that requires you to embrace a new norm. Finding your own support system, allowing breaks and prioritizing self-care are helpful tools in sustaining your capacity as a caregiver.
Self-care for caregivers
No matter who you care for or what your role looks like, caregiving isn’t easy. It’s more important than ever to make your own health a priority. Here are some tips on finding your own support:
- Look for support groups or community-based organizations to connect with other caregivers
- Seek therapy or counseling
- Take time each day for physical activity
- Pace yourself to avoid burnout
- Ask for help often and delegate tasks
- Be open to new technologies and ideas that could support your loved one’s independence
- Learn about your loved one’s condition — knowledge is power
- Maintain your own social life and hobbies
Practical considerations for caregivers
Taking time off
Caregiving can be a full-time job and sometimes caregivers find themselves in a position where they must step away from their own job. You can start by talking to your manager or HR team to learn more about programs or paid leave options. It’s helpful to get familiar with government programs that could support your role as a caregiver if you have to quit or take a leave.
Legal matters
Get educated on things like living wills, power of attorney, advanced care planning, and accessing your loved one’s health information. You may be navigating estate planning or life insurance matters. Be sure to find a trusted attorney to help ensure that you’re making informed decisions and understand both your and the patient’s rights.
Managing finances
Patients and caregivers can face stressful financial issues, like losing income, paying medical bills, or facing a future with one less income. Getting familiar with caregiving finances and sources of financial help is an important first step. Seeking help from a financial professional, like a financial advisor, is another great way to help plan and prepare for an unknown future.
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