Alcibiades Rives, RN |Director of Nursing
Homewatch CareGivers of Southwest Broward
As we close the month of October, we at Homewatch CareGivers of Southwest Broward wish to celebrate the many families who’ve recovered from the many trials, fears and worry breast cancer may have caused. We celebrate the brave individuals who continue to fight on, despite the fatigue and heartache. We understand the importance of being supported during this difficult time. For many family’s caregiver roles become heavily strained- compounding stress that may lead to ineffective coping. Families are encouraged to create a plan of action and include the individuals need as a priority. It is important to understand when creating your action plan to not take on too many responsibilities. Your loved one will need you to be available emotionally, as well as physically, communicate needs with each other and by remember to ask for help. Recruitment of an outside caregiver may be helpful for assistance with activities of daily living, respite care and medical visits, etc. Homewatch CareGivers aids can assist with meal prepping, record any physician ordered measurements such as daily vital signs, medication reminders and record of medication compliance. “The most important contributor of overall (Quality of Life) for people recently diagnosed with advanced cancer was social support. It was followed by general health perceptions, energy, social function, psychological function and physical function.” Rodríguez, A. M., Mayo, N. E., & Gagnon, B. (2013). Fighting breast cancer starts at the individual level and expands as their needs increase. It takes a community to support this effort and we want to be a part of your effort – for more information on finding an aid contact Homewatch CareGivers of Southwest Broward office 954.645.2945. hwcg.com/southwest-broward
Community Resources:
Gilda’s Club South Florida https://gildasclubsouthflorida.org/
American Cancer Society https://www.cancer.org/treatment/support-programs-and-services.html
Susan G. Komen https://komenmiaftl.org/
References:
Rodríguez, A. M., Mayo, N. E., & Gagnon, B. (2013). Independent contributors to overall quality of life in people with advanced cancer. British journal of cancer, 108(9), 1790–1800. https://doi.org/10.1038/bjc.2013.146
