Bladder Cancer
For the Caregiver
Being a caregiver for a loved one with bladder cancer is an incredibly important responsibility that can make a tremendous difference in the life of the person with cancer. You will find this valuable role takes patience, flexibility and warmth, along with organizational skills. It is also essential for you to remember to accept support and make time for self-care. Don’t try to shoulder everything alone. Following are some of the most important things you can do to help your loved one manage a bladder cancer diagnosis.
Attend medical visits. Learn from the medical team about bladder cancer, possible treatment options and other aspects of care. Ask for copies of test results, procedures, treatments received, etc.
Introduce yourself to the health care team. Get contact information for key team members and find out when and how to reach out with questions and concerns. Timely topics may require a phone call or text, while others may be perfect for email or a health care portal (if available).
Get permission to receive medical information. Make sure you have signed all forms that allow you to communicate with your loved one’s medical team, renew prescriptions and create an account on the health care portal.
Give and track medication. In some situations, your loved one may need help taking their medications on time. For treatment to work as intended, medications must be taken on time. It may be helpful to create a chart or set reminders or alarms to make it easier to stay on schedule with medications taken at home and by appointment at the hospital or doctor’s office.
Help manage side effects. Learn the side effects to watch for, when they likely will occur and what to do if they happen. Use a tracking sheet to help you remember details that you can share with your medical team.
Update family and friends. Create a group email or text so you can send one email to everyone at the same time. This will dramatically reduce phone calls and individual emails as well as ensure that everyone is getting the same information.
Surround yourself with support. Seek out a local or online cancer support group, peer-to-peer counseling organization or a cancer caregivers’ support group. It can help immensely to talk with another person who has been in your shoes.
Practice self-care. You must care for yourself. Self-care will help you feel re-energized, happier and better prepared for your ongoing caregiving role. Commit to leading a healthy lifestyle. Think about the activities that make you happy. Go to the gym. Talk a walk. Do yoga. Get a massage. Read a book. Find something to laugh about every day; it is a great way to reduce stress.
