For Families and Caregivers

Who is a caregiver?

If you are caring for someone with cancer, then you are a caregiver. You may be a spouse, a child, a parent, a family member or a friend of the patient. Your loved one may live in the house with you or may live across town. They may even live across the country. The term “caregiving” is broad and includes a wide range of activities, including:

• Taking your loved one to doctor appointments or cancer treatments
• Caring for your loved one’s family while they are unable
• Taking over responsibilities from your loved one, such as grocery shopping or bill paying
• Helping with household chores
• Talking with the doctors and nurses and receiving medical updates
• Talking, listening or simply being there for your loved one

Think about yourself as well

Caring for your loved one requires a lot time and energy. In the middle of your endless to-do list, make sure you take some time for you as well. Cancer treatment and recovery can last a long time. You need to pace yourself and care for yourself during this process. Both you and your loved one will benefit if you take some time to rest, relax and reenergize.
In this section:

• Communication for Caregivers
• Changing Roles
• Getting Help
• Caring for the Caregiver
• Life Issues
• Legal Issues
• Depression and Anxiety
• Spirituality
• Going to the Doctor
• Long-Distance Caregiving
• When Treatment is Over

Visit our Counseling Services to make an appointment with our counselors.

Contact us in Cancer Support Services at 202-877-CARE (2273).