 Caregiver discussion board at the ACS Cancer Survivors Network
Most people caring for a person with cancer take on the job with great love and dedication, but little training in how to manage a serious or chronic illness. What if your loved one stops eating? Seems terribly uncomfortable? Refuses visitors?
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Caregiver Fact
"Loss of sleep as a result of caring for a seriously ill loved one is a pervasive problem and contributes to depression. Hiring a respite worker, arranging a brief stay in a care facility, or scheduling a stay with another family member can help you get needed sleep."
--- Source: National Family Caregivers Association
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How does a caregiver juggle it all: the clinic visits, treatment decisions, medical bills, shock, worry, cooking, cleaning?
The ACS Web pages listed below offer some guidance, and American Cancer Society call specialists are available to answer questions 24 hours a day, 7 days a week at 1-800-ACS-2345. They can also help callers find assistance in their own communities.
Coping with Cancer in
Everyday Life
An overview of what to expect at diagnosis, when making treatment decisions, during holidays, and after
cancer.
Coping with Physical and Emotional Changes
Learn when to call the doctor, where to go for help, and what you can do to deal with side effects and long-term physical changes.
A Guide to Caring for the Person with Cancer at Home
Practical suggestions for managing cancer and treatment related physical problems at home.
American Cancer Society Support Programs and
Services
Find rides to medical appointments and more.
Home Care Agencies
Learn about the compassionate and expert health care services now available at home instead of in a
hospital or other institution.
50 State Searchable List of Caregiver Resources
Publicly-funded caregiver support programs in each of the 50 states and the District of Columbia.
Hospice Care
Hospice organizations help patients to continue an alert, pain-free life and to manage other symptoms
so that their last days may be spent with dignity and quality, surrounded by their loved ones. Hospice
affirms life and neither hastens nor postpones death.
Social, Emotional, and Financial Topics
Talking About Cancer
Guidance on talking with family and friends, children, the person with cancer, employers, medical
professionals, insurance companies. How to find a support group or online community.
Cancer Survivors Network
This free ACS support network on the web was created by and for cancer survivors and their loved ones.
Read comments and share your own via personal homepages, chats, discussion boards, personal
stories, talk shows, and more.
What Are Some Concrete Ways People Can Help?
Child care, organizing people who want to help, companionship, and more.
Coping Checkup for Caregivers
Get a snapshot of your coping skills and find new coping tips
Medical Insurance and Financial Help
Books and Booklets from the American Cancer Society
Caregiving: A Step-By-Step Resource for Caring for the Person with Cancer at Home
NCCN Distress Treatment Guidelines
NCCN Advanced Cancer and Palliative Care Guidelines for Patients
Revised 6/2006
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