Life following a cancer diagnosis can be one of the toughest challenges that someone can face, but it is never a challenge that one must face alone. Whether it is from the devotion of your loved ones or a private care package from Helping Hands, there are a number of different support options available to ensure that, no matter what, you always have a helping hand.
We have compiled a guide of all the home care options available to you including Live in care and nighttime nursing. Many people affected by cancer opt for home care over other alternatives so that they can remain at home with familiar surroundings and loved ones. After all, is where the heart is.
What Care Is Available For Cancer Patients?
Live in care offers round-the-clock support with all aspects of your physical, medical and emotional needs, which can be particularly comforting if you live alone. If you reside with a loved one, live-in care allows you to continue to live life at home as a family, without any compromise on your care.
At an emotionally charged time, palliative care can be crucial to remaining calm and comfortable in your own home. We understand that time spent with loved ones is crucial, and palliative care allows you to spend that time as a family, giving you a sense of togetherness and unity during a difficult time.
Visiting care can be as regular as you require and is fantastic for giving you a little extra help at home. Whether it is a spot of cleaning, cooking or taking the dog for a walk, visiting care can alleviate the pressure so that you can focus on what’s most important: you.
Overnight care can help you, and your loved ones, sleep more soundly. It can mean waking in the night for medication, or reassurance during restless nights, but whatever you decide suits your needs, care through the night can support an overall calmer lifestyle.
Specialised nursing care for cancer provides you with all the necessary complex support but within the familiarity of your own home, rather than residential care, a hospice, or hospital. Overseen by trained clinicians, the level of care is not compromised – and neither is your comfort.
A short-term option, respite care offers an alternative support service. Whether your usual carer is away, or you require an extra hand whilst you adjust to life at home again following a hospital discharge, respite care can help life run more smoothly through periods of change.
What Does Cancer Home Care Include?
There are many different elements to these types of care that make living with cancer more comfortable at home, including:
Medical & physical support
Staying on track with your medication can be overwhelming, and by having someone support you with your routine, it is one less thing to think about, and you and your family can spend more time doing things you enjoy. And whilst you’re spending this precious time with family, your trained carer will support you with low-grade medical care, including dressing wounds, support with bowel, stoma and catheter care. Carers can also support you after chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and hormonal therapy.
Furthermore, home care services also provide assistance with personal care, such as bathing, getting dressed, and help with going to the toilet, ensuring that you are able to move around your home safely and with dignity.
Errands & nutritional support
Home care is not restricted to your four walls; carers can run errands outside of the home, such as collecting prescriptions, going food shopping, and taking you to appointments.
They can also offer nutritional support through meal planning and cooking to help maintain a healthy diet. What’s more, we understand that cleaning and tidying around the home can seem daunting when affected by cancer, but home care can involve tasks around the house, meaning you can stay on top of laundry and have a clean environment, which all contribute to a positive well-being.
Companionship
Companionship, alongside all other vital support, is a huge part of what home care can provide; many people find that their carers become more like friends. You and your loved ones are not alone, and having home care can lighten the load.
Whether it is a chat over a cup of tea, or simply having some regular company, knowing that you have a companion can be a great comfort.
What Are The Benefits Of Home Care For Cancer Patients?
Ultimately, the greatest benefit of home care for cancer patients is regaining autonomy and feeling safe at home. With the right care provider, you’ll receive a care plan that’s suited to your needs, allowing you to continue with your usual routines in the place you feel most comfortable.
Often, when a family member is affected by cancer, surrounding family members become more hands-on and take on a responsibility to care for their loved one, but that needn’t be the case. Respite care not only provides some time for rest and recuperation for the family carers, but it enables you to spend more time doing what’s most important: being a family.
Live-in and overnight care mean that your friends and family do not need to fret about your well-being and that you can worry less about day-to-day tasks. A live-in carer will take care of any needs, but also provide companionship during a difficult time. For example, they can ensure that you have your medication on time, that you are eating a healthy diet, your home is clean and tidy, and that you feel emotionally supported along the way.
Am I Eligible For Cancer Care At Home?
The short answer is yes, of course you are. With cancer care from Helping Hands, the majority of our families pay privately. However, it may be possible for you to access home care funding from either your local authority or Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG). In this instance, we would work alongside the funding body to get the support you need to get set up with high-quality care at home.
If you or someone you love need support at home, there are funding options available to you. If you’d like to find out more, please do not hesitate to get in touch.
How Helping Hands Can Support You?
Here at Helping Hands, we know that no two cancer patients are the same. We understand that your diagnosis and lifestyle factors will impact what you need to best support you, which is why we pride ourselves on creating a unique care plan for every single person.
Whether you would like two visits a week to help with tasks around the home, or a live-in carer to support you in all ways, we believe that there is a home care plan to fit your needs.
For more information, please call 0844 417 5016 and our customer care specialists will be happy to assist.
