Learning that a loved one has cancer can be devastating. This is even more so if your loved one is elderly. Cancer treatment and aftercare is challenging at any age but the challenges are even greater in seniors because of other age-related complications. In most cases, caring for a senior with cancer involves full-time care for several years. This can take a toll on the caregiver, more so because the caregiver is so emotionally attached to the cancer patient, and also because they would also have their own commitments to fulfill.
When Assisted Living Can Help
Even when a person’s cancer is treatable, the recovery process can be long and painful. Most cancer patients of all ages struggle to manage their everyday chores by themselves during this time. If you or other family members are unable to provide the care your loved one needs at this time, you should consider looking for an assisted living facility that has special provisions in place for seniors with cancer.
These facilities are staffed by trained professionals who have expert knowledge of caring for seniors with all types of ailments, including cancer.
These facilities will coordinate with your loved one’s doctor to develop a customized care plan that supports their recovery in terms of medicine management, nutritious meals, pain management, and emotional support. The staff at assisted living facilities are committed to providing cancer survivors with personalized, caring support 24/7, which is so crucial in the fight against cancer.
How to Choose an Assisted Living for Seniors with Cancer
Different assisted living facilities offer different levels of care. Before you can choose a facility for your loved one, it is important to first speak to their doctor to understand the diagnosis and care requirements. Armed with this knowledge, you can then start exploring senior living communities that offer the kind of services that your loved one requires.
Searching online is a good start. You will be able to get more information about what each facility offers and shortlist those that are most relevant. When searching online, you must take time to read reviews and if you can, call up the reviewers to ask them questions about their first-hand experience with the facility. Don’t stop there however. Ask family, friends, neighbors, and your family doctor for recommendations.
After you’ve made a shortlist of probably facilities, call each one, ask them a few basic questions, and if they offer what you need book an appointment for a personal visit to the premises. During your visit, make note of everything you observe to assess whether this would be right for your loved one. Pay special attention to the staff to determine how they interact with the residents.
Questions To Ask Regarding Cancer Care
• What stage of cancer is your loved one in?
• What are their treatment options?
• How long will the treatment take and what help will be required during that time?
• What are the potential side effects of the treatment?
• Where will the treatments occur and how often will they need to visit the medical facility?
• Will they require 24/7 care? What type of care will they require 24/7?
• What are their dietary needs during this time?
• Can you provide the physical care and emotional support they need at this time?
• Will they be able to manage alone at home if you’re out at work all day?
