Advances in cancer treatments and rising hospital costs have led to shorter hospital stays with less recovery time. This results in sicker people returning home to recover. Home health care professionals are increasingly important in caring for and maintaining the quality of life for these individuals. These home health aides are trained to recognize signs of problems cancer patients experience and possible cancer treatment side effects.
These aides assist with palliative treatment (i.e. patient comfort especially for those at the end stage). These caregivers also provide a needed respite for the family caretaker. It is important that the caretaker look after their own physical and mental well being during this stressful time.
Services Provided to Assist Clients with Cancer
- Toileting
- Bathing/Showering
- Dressing
- Ambulation (Walking)
- Transferring
- Feeding and Continence care (if needed and physician recommended)
- Assist with Insuring Proper Nutritional Intake by Preparing Meals and Encouraging Client to Eat or take Supplemental Nutrition
- Light housekeeping
- Run errands
- Medication reminders.
- Accompany to doctor’s appointments
- Drive and Accompany to Chemotherapy or Radiation Therapy
- Passive exercise
- Helping to maintain safety
- Monitor for behavioral changes
Please note services provided on an as needed basis according to individual client’s needs
Resources for Additional Information on Cancer
- American Cancer Society
- The National Cancer Information Center 1-800-227-2345