Caregiver support is an invaluable piece of the complicated puzzle of your loved one’s lung cancer journey. The caregiver is an individual who provides physical, mental, and emotional support for a loved one battling health challenges. A caregiver may be a spouse, partner, child, friend, or other family member. Being a caregiver is often done without compensation and usually with no preparation or training.

Being a caregiver takes courage. While caregivers may take on a variety of different roles and responsibilities, they play a key role in their loved one’s overall well-being and can be a source of support and encouragement. Taking on the role of a caregiver requires patience, compassion, and the ability to communicate effectively to ensure your loved one is receiving the best possible care.

Choosing to be a caregiver for someone with lung cancer can be rewarding, but it also comes with its own set of challenges. Here are 10 tips to help you prepare to care for a loved one with lung cancer.

1. Learn how to care for yourself. Caregiving can be emotionally, physically, and mentally demanding. You must take care of yourself in order to provide the care needed during your loved one’s cancer journey.
2. Prioritize self-care by seeking support from others, taking breaks, and continuing to engage in activities you enjoy.
3. Join a support group. Caregiver support groups are a great resource for connecting with others who may be experiencing the same feelings and struggles as you.
4. Ask for help. The journey of caring for a loved one with lung cancer is often unpredictable. You should be flexible and able to adapt to changes as needed. Be honest with yourself about what you are able to do. Identify tasks that others can do and be willing to accept help.
5. Being proactive about facing challenges can help ensure you are caring for yourself as you care for others.
6. Maintain open and honest communication with the person you are caring for. Encourage them to share their thoughts and feelings, but be sure to acknowledge and verbalize your own feelings too. Let them know you are available when they need you and express the importance of being included in their care.
7. Maintain close and consistent contact with the care team. The care team may consist of doctors, nurses, social workers, and pharmacists. As a caregiver, you are part of the care team, too. Be sure that these health care professionals know who you are and your role as caregiver.
8. Understand your role. Being a caregiver may look differently depending on the level of care needed and the complexity of the cancer treatment. Common responsibilities you can prepare to engage in as a caregiver include assisting with practical needs, helping to coordinate care, and offering emotional support.
9. Educate yourself. Learn about your loved one’s specific type of lung cancer, their treatment plan, and any other health conditions they may be dealing with.
10. Be informed about options. Clinical trials may be part of the available options and plan for those with cancer. Clinical trial participation provides an avenue to receive expert care while advancing lung cancer research. As a caregiver, you will play a major role in supporting your loved one throughout the clinical trial process if they choose to participate.

If your loved one is battling NSCLC, click here to learn more about available clinical trials.

References:

• American Cancer Society. What is a Cancer Caregiver?
• American Cancer Society. Cancer Caregiver Resource Guide
• American Lung Association. Taking Care of Yourself as a Lung Cancer Caregiver