Breast Cancer Awareness Month is a critical time to spread knowledge and support those affected by breast cancer. Survivors may have beaten their breast cancer diagnosis, but they may continue to face both physical and emotional challenges. If you have a loved one who has survived breast cancer, there are several ways you can provide support.
Unique Challenges Faced by Older Breast Cancer Survivors
Senior breast cancer survivors often face a different set of challenges compared to younger ones. It's vital to understand these difficulties to offer the best support possible.
As seniors, our bodies naturally face more health issues. Breast cancer can add complications such as long-term effects of treatments like chemotherapy and radiation, managing other chronic conditions alongside cancer recovery, and increased fatigue and reduced mobility.
The mental toll of breast cancer can't be ignored. Older adults might face anxiety about cancer recurrence, depression stemming from prolonged illness and treatment, and stress from medical procedures and hospital visits.
Seniors often deal with social isolation, and cancer can worsen this issue. They may experience loss of friends or family members, mobility issues that restrict social interactions, and feeling misunderstood by younger individuals who haven't faced similar health issues.
Financial constraints can be particularly harsh, causing stress and difficulty in getting needed care. High costs of treatments and medications, lack of transportation to medical appointments, and navigating complex healthcare systems and insurance are common challenges.
Strategies for Providing Emotional Support
Providing emotional support is key to helping senior cancer survivors thrive despite their challenges. Active listening and empathy can make a huge difference. Show empathy by offering a listening ear without judgment, understanding their fears and validating their feelings, and encouraging open and honest communication.
Support groups can be a lifeline for many seniors. You can help by finding local or online support groups, offering to accompany them to group meetings, and encouraging them to share their experiences and connect with others in similar situations.
Mental health is just as important as physical health. Consider helping them find a mental health professional, suggesting activities like meditation or breathing exercises, and encouraging the use of apps for mental wellness.
Creating a loving and supportive environment can ease feelings of isolation. Organize community events focused on breast cancer awareness, encourage neighborhood check-ins from friends and relatives, and participate in community talks or classes.
Practical Support for Senior Survivors
Practical help goes a long way in aiding recovery. Here's how you can pitch in:
- Assist with medical appointments and treatments by scheduling and reminding them of appointments, accompanying them to visits for emotional and logistical support, and helping them understand medical information and treatment plans.
- Help with daily living activities like house cleaning, grocery shopping, and meal preparation. Offer help with personal care like bathing and dressing, and ensure they have access to mobility aids if needed.
- Provide transportation and mobility aids by offering rides to medical appointments or social gatherings, helping arrange reliable transportation services, and assisting in securing mobility aids like walkers or wheelchairs.
- Ensure proper nutrition and exercise by encouraging a balanced diet tailored to their needs, suggesting gentle exercises like walking or yoga, and planning activities together to make it enjoyable and maintain consistency.
Offering practical assistance can go a long way toward helping seniors and others who have dealt with breast cancer. Many offers of support fade away after the initial diagnosis. By providing ongoing support for senior survivors, you can significantly improve their overall quality of life.
Provide More Care for Senior Breast Cancer Survivors
Supporting senior breast cancer survivors is essential. During Breast Cancer Awareness Month, take action by offering emotional and practical help and leveraging available resources. For families in the Glendale, Peoria, Phoenix, Luke Air Force Base, and Tolleson areas, Senior Helpers Glendale is here to provide the support you need. Reach out to us today, and let's make a positive impact together.