The thought that your elderly loved one might be suffering from cancer can be a frightening thought. You know that this type of diagnosis would change their lives and alter plans for the future. As their adult child you are likely thinking about their mortality and the time that you want to spend with them.

As their family caregiver, however, your mind first goes to the care needs that they will have moving forward should they be diagnosed with cancer. Early detection and early intervention can be extremely effective, which means that knowing the type of approach that your parent would want to take can be a valuable first step in managing the condition. This can cause you to question when to start the discussion about potential cancer treatments. Though it may seem early, a good time to start this discussion is actually before they go in for a screening.

Talking to your parent about potential cancer treatment before a screening gives them the opportunity to consider this important decision with a clear mind before the emotional impact of the diagnosis. By discussing this situation early you give your parent a chance to consider the options and evaluate their feelings regarding seeking treatment. For many elderly adults, the reality that they are of advanced age and may be dealing with other health problems makes it clear that treatment for cancer may not be beneficial and could actually diminish their health and quality of life.

Keep in mind that the decision that your parent makes during this initial conversation may not be the same as their final decision. For example, during this conversation they may state that they do not want to pursue treatment, but when they are diagnosed they may change their mind. Or they may choose a treatment they think they would want but then when they hear the realities of the treatment they may change their mind and decide on another or no treatment.

Having this discussion early, however, allows you to reference the thoughts that they had and the decisions that they made so that your parent can feel more confident that they are truly making the decision that is right for them.

Starting home health care can be one of the best decisions that you can make for your senior during the course of your care journey with them. A home health care services provider can be in the home with your aging parent on a fully customized schedule that ensures that they have continued and reliable access to the care, support, and assistance that they need to manage their needs in the way that is right for them.

Through this type of personalized care the home health care provider can help your parent stay healthy, safe, comfortable, and happy, and to pursue an independent, active, and fulfilling lifestyle as they age in place. These services can include safe and reliable transportation, assistance with personal care tasks such as bathing, mobility support to manage balance and other mobility issues, meal preparation, help keeping the home tidy, and companionship.

If you or an aging loved-one are considering hiring Home Health Care Services in Sun City AZ, please contact the caring staff at Progressive Care today.

Affordable In-Home Care in the Wichita Metro Area. Call Today: (316) 691-5050.