A pancreatic cancer diagnosis can be stressful, and your senior loved one will have to remain strong if he or she wants the best chance of beating the disease. Part of your loved one’s fight involves knowing what to expect in the weeks to come and how to manage each challenge. Here are a few of the factors that come into play when managing pancreatic cancer in the senior years.
Abdominal & Back Pain
Not only does pancreatic cancer cause chronic discomfort throughout the midsection, but the treatments can produce some painful side effects as well. In addition to pain medications, seniors and their caregivers should spend some time researching nerve blocks. Unlike oral painkillers, nerve blocks are injected directly into a cluster of nerves. Depending on the extent of the pain, most nerve blocks work for 6 to 12 months.
If your senior loved one has been diagnosed with a serious condition and needs help with tasks like meal prep, transportation, bathing, and grooming, reach out to Assisting Hands Home Care, a leading provider of elder care families can trust. We also offer comprehensive care for seniors with dementia, Alzheimer’s, and Parkinson’s.
Emotional Health
Overcoming the psychological and emotional challenges of a cancer diagnosis can be difficult at any age. Seniors often find themselves experiencing depression, anxiety, severe mood swings, and even PTSD after a diagnosis. Though you’re sure to notice some changes in your loved one’s personality, you should keep an eye out for lingering issues. A therapist can help your loved one work through his or her emotions and maintain a positive outlook on life.
Inadequate Insulin Production
Even minor damage to the pancreas can result in massive changes to insulin levels, which is why many seniors with pancreatic cancer develop type 2 diabetes or prediabetes within months of their initial diagnosis. A healthy diet filled with fresh produce and lean protein sources should be your loved one’s first line of defense against cancer, but he or she might also have to use insulin shots or patches.
If your senior loved one needs help managing an illness or assistance with daily tasks, make sure you choose a top-rated provider of at-home care. Assisting Hands Home Care is here to help your loved one live a happier and healthier life in the golden years.
Extreme Weight Loss
One of the most common symptoms of pancreatic cancer is weight loss. Losing weight too rapidly makes it difficult for seniors to exercise, and it can weaken their immune systems over time. Supplements and protein shakes can be used to treat this symptom temporarily, but your loved one should also work with a dietitian to explore long-term solutions.
If your loved one needs help managing pancreatic cancer or another serious condition, consider hiring a professional home caregiver. Home care Monmouth providers can benefit aging adults in a variety of ways. From cooking nutritious meals to offering timely medication reminders, the dedicated caregivers at Assisting Hands Home Care Monmouth are available to help your elderly loved one 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. To talk to one of our friendly Care Specialists and create a customized senior care plan, call us today.
