Caregivers Need to Make Themselves a Priority

Medical advances and changing health policies are placing a greater strain on caregivers of cancer patients, making it more important than ever for caregivers to maintain their own health, experts say.

Shorter hospital stays and more convenient treatments may be better for patients, but they often can be overwhelming for caregivers, says Phyddy Kettler, a psychiatric advanced practice nurse at M. D. Anderson.

Less time in the hospital setting may mean more at-home care with less day-to-day help from medical professionals, Kettler says. The trend toward outpatient treatments means greater responsibility for caregivers, such as medication and side effects management. Cuts in insurance coverage and increasing health care costs add to the burden of financial stress.

Establishing self-care routine is important

"Though the responsibilities can render caregivers physically and emotionally exhausted, it is crucial that they take care of themselves so that their overall health does not suffer," Kettler says. "Caregivers often are hesitant to ask for help or feel too guilty to take any time for themselves, but it is vital that they do so."

Kettler offers these other suggestions:

Join a caregiver support group- Seek support with other caregivers.

Do something for yourself every day- Take a 10-minute walk, read for a few minutes, watch a movie or call a friend.

Keep in close contact with others- Don't isolate yourself.

Maintain physical and mental health- Make time to eat and get as much sleep as possible. Seek professional help if stress becomes overwhelming.

Take it one day at a time- Focus on today to combat fears of the future. Don't dwell on imaginary scenarios that may not occur.

Kettler also suggests focusing on the positive. "Despite the difficulties and devastation many caregivers face, as a whole, this can bring you and your loved one closer together in a way some people don't expect."