How to support a loved one with breast cancer

In honor of Breast Cancer Awareness month, we at Herewith wanted to share some insight on how in-home care can help support the health and healing of those who have been affected by breast cancer. 

Who does breast cancer affect?

Breast cancer is the second-most common cancer in women in the United States. What does that mean for our friends, neighbors, and loved ones? It means that we all know someone whose life has been touched by a diagnosis. 

Breast cancer affects women (and a very small percent of men) of all ages, but the median age for a diagnosis is 63, with risk increasing as we get older. Rates begin to increase after age 40 and are highest in women over age 70.

With this kind of demographic, breast cancer diagnoses not only affects our aging parents and family members, but women and individuals in the prime of their family caregiving roles, who care for both their own children and their parents. 

What kind of care needs to expect with a breast cancer diagnosis?

Because breast cancer can affect such a broad age range, care needs can be very different for each person diagnosed. Over the years, improved early detection and treatments have made a positive impact on recovery, but many different kinds of support are still needed throughout the course of treatment, which can include surgery, chemotherapy, hormone therapy, and radiation. 

No matter what the prognosis or course of treatment, a loved one with breast cancer will need emotional and physical care from those around them. Finding in-home care that can help reduce stress and that works for each family’s unique situation is essential.

How can Herewith help with care during or after treatment?

In-home caregiving can help ensure a loved one is being looked after at all times, giving families more time to spend together healing and supporting each other. 

Caregivers can lift the responsibility of everyday tasks, like meal preparation and light housekeeping, help with errands, and provide companionship and non-medical support during the recovery process, such as medication reminders, mobility support, and personal care. After surgery or treatments, caregivers who have experience with rehab care can help give peace of mind that your loved one is being looked after by someone with expertise.

In-home care can also provide welcome respite care for those who usually care for their own parents, so they can take the necessary time to heal themselves.

To start a customized caregiver search for yourself or someone you love, simply create your account here and start browsing caregivers in your area.  

References: American Cancer Society, Susan G. Komen, National Breast Cancer Foundation