Working with Others

Family Meetings

Family meetings can help you make sure that everyone understands the situation. Caring for someone with cancer is not a one-person job. You need others to pitch in. Even if they don’t give direct care, the time you spend caregiving may affect them.

Talking with Family & Friends

Many caregivers find it difficult to speak with the person who is sick. You and your loved one are in this together, but your experiences and roles are very different. You may have negative feelings but not want to burden one another. Both of you may be deeply afraid.

Making a Care Plan

It is important to have a written plan of care for your loved one. A Care Plan lays out what needs to be done to manage the health and well-being of the cancer patient. Unlike the doctor’s “plan of care,” the Care Plan addresses non-medical issues.

Getting Help

Caring for someone with cancer can be hard, time-consuming, and stressful. As a caregiver, you are at increased risk of emotional, mental, and physical health problems. You may feel stress, anger, anxiety, depression, fatigue, loneliness, and uncertainty. Caregivers need help.

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