Communication is key
You’ll be communicating regularly with the patient, their doctors and other health care professionals, as well as family and friends of the patient. Take the time to explore what type of help the patient needs at this time. They may need help with day-to-day tasks but can still make their own health decisions independently. Or, they may need more help than they’re ready to admit they need.
Often people have trouble asking for help. Keeping an open line of communication can help. You may find it helpful to attend a counseling session together occasionally, which can be done virtually if the patient is not up to attending in person.
"Sometimes you just need that person to put their hand on your shoulder and tell you, ‘I'm right here. I'll be with you every step of the way.'"
Jo-Marie Ewell, head and neck cancer navigator
Sentara Oncology
Tips for when it’s hard to communicate with the patient:
- When the person is talking or seems frustrated, make eye contact and hold the person's hand.
- Ask specific questions that need yes or no answers.
- When offering choices, limit the person to just one or two.
- Avoid correcting the person in a negative way.
Communicating with loved ones
As the primary caretaker, you will probably also be asked for updates about the patient. This can be overwhelming when you’re also balancing their care and needs.
You can share this information that can help you manage expectations: