It is natural to feel overwhelmed and unsure of how to provide support in the face of a loved one's breast cancer diagnosis. This feeling can be especially pronounced when that loved one is a senior. In this critical moment, understanding, compassion, and actionable support need to take center stage. This Senior Helpers blog post offers a guide to adult children of seniors who have recently been diagnosed with breast cancer.
Our goal is to provide practical advice on how to support your loved one both emotionally and practically during this challenging time.
Breast Cancer in Seniors
Breast cancer is a disease that can affect anyone, but for seniors, it presents several unique challenges and risks. In fact, women over the age of 65 account for approximately half of new breast cancer diagnoses.
Symptoms in seniors may include lumps in the breast, changes in breast size or shape, and skin changes like redness or dimpling. These symptoms are not much different from what young people with breast cancer experience, but the response to treatment does vary. Seniors are at a greater risk of side effects from treatment and often require more monitoring because of pre-existing conditions.
How to Support a Senior Loved One with Breast Cancer
Offering emotional, practical, as well as knowledgeable support to a senior diagnosed with breast cancer is essential. Here is what you can do:
1. Emotional Support
Emotional support means showing understanding of their feelings and fears. It is important to listen to their concerns as well as provide reassurance and comfort. This support can take the form of regular conversations, spending quality time together, or just being there for them when they need you.
2. Practical Support
Practical support often includes assisting with the logistics of medical appointments, making sure medication is managed correctly, and helping with the everyday tasks that might be exhausting for them. Offering to accompany seniors to medical appointments can provide comfort and allow you to better understand their treatment plan. This way, you can effectively provide optimal support.
3. Knowledgeable Support
The complexities of medical terms and treatment options can also be understandably overwhelming. As an advocate for seniors, it is wise to take the time to learn about breast cancer, its treatments, and its potential side effects. This knowledge can also help your loved one make informed decisions about their care and treatment plan.
Encouraging Regular Screening
The experience of supporting seniors through a breast cancer diagnosis can serve as a powerful reminder of the wisdom of getting regular cancer screenings. Early detection is often paramount in successful treatment and positive outcomes. Encourage family members and friends to schedule regular breast cancer screenings, and make sure to follow the same advice yourself.
Senior Helpers is Here to Offer Support
Senior Helpers provides compassionate, in-home senior care services tailored to the unique needs of seniors in our communities.
If you live in Napa, Sonoma, St. Helena, or Fairfield, don't hesitate to contact us anytime at Senior Helpers Napa. We are here for seniors and their families to offer the care and support they need during these challenging times.