Being diagnosed with cancer later in life can be daunting and overwhelming, making a person feel as though their world is out of control. Many people also express feelings of helplessness and powerlessness after discovering they have cancer.

However, many discover that crafting a personalized plan for managing a cancer diagnosis can assist seniors in making treatment decisions and regaining control over their lives. Furthermore, by engaging in intentional actions, it is possible to maintain a focus on quality of life and joyful moments, even during difficult times.

60% of people who have cancer are 65 or older.

Here are some strategies for coping with a cancer diagnosis:

• Absorb the information – Allow yourself the time needed to absorb the news. Processing a diagnosis can be challenging, and you should feel comfortable taking the space required to come to terms with the next steps in your treatment plan.
• Encourage education – As the saying goes, “Knowledge is power.” Encourage learning as much as possible about the type of cancer and available treatment options. Health care professionals are willing to provide resources to aid in understanding the diagnosis.
• Express feelings – It’s normal to feel depressed, angry, sad, or overwhelmed after being diagnosed with cancer. There are many ways to express feelings, whether with a trusted person in your life, a mental health professional, or a local support group.
• Maintain healthy habits – Maintaining healthy habits is important following a cancer diagnosis. Follow the doctor’s advice on nutrition and exercise, and make an effort to care for mental and physical well-being.
• Evaluate financial needs – Reviewing insurance coverage and planning how to pay for treatment will help relieve stress in the future.
• Focus on other parts of life – Focusing on controllable aspects of life helps people remember that they have the power to decide how they live.

Comfort Keepers Can Help

If you need support during your cancer journey, Comfort Keepers provides services for clients with a range of needs and physical abilities. Whether it’s a ride to the doctor or help around the house, our goal is to provide compassionate care that helps clients find joy and happiness in each day.

To learn more about our in-home care services, contact Comfort Keepers today.

References

Cancer.net. “Aging and Cancer.” Web. 2018.

American Cancer Society. “Coping with Cancer.” Web.

American Society of Clinical Oncology. “Geriatric Oncology.” Web.

There are many benefits that come with getting older, but there are also health and wellness factors to consider. As we age, the body’s natural defences can become less reliable; as a result, seniors may be more susceptible to infections, including pneumonia.

Pneumonia is an infection that affects one or both lungs, and it can range from mild to severe. The additional steps that seniors take to protect their health can have long-lasting physical and mental effects, so prevention and prompt treatment remain important to maintaining quality of life.

Why Pneumonia is More Common in Seniors

Changes to the lungs as we age: As the respiratory system changes with age, seniors cannot always clear secretions from the lungs effectively. These secretions can move into the bronchial tubes and contribute to infection.

Weakened immune systems: A senior’s immune system may have a harder time fighting infection. Certain health issues can further reduce the body’s ability to respond, such as organ or bone marrow transplants, cancer treatment (including chemotherapy), or long-term steroid use.

Underlying health conditions: Conditions such as diabetes, Parkinson’s disease, and HIV can increase a senior’s risk of pneumonia, as can cystic fibrosis, asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and bronchiectasis. Surgery can also increase exposure to infections that may lead to pneumonia.

Signs of Pneumonia

Symptoms can include coughing, fever, chills, shortness of breath, chest pain, green or yellow sputum produced during coughing, fatigue, and a sudden worsening of a cold or the flu.

Pneumonia Treatments

Typically, a physician will order a chest X-ray and/or blood tests to help determine whether a senior has pneumonia. Bacterial pneumonia is usually treated with antibiotics. If the infection is viral, an antiviral medication may be prescribed. In addition to medication, clinicians may provide fluids, oxygen, pain relief, and other medical support.

Reducing the Risk of Pneumonia in Seniors

Seniors should discuss pneumonia prevention with a physician or other health care provider to determine the most appropriate plan. Options to help reduce the risk of pneumonia include:

• Get vaccinated: Adults aged 65 and older should discuss annual influenza vaccination and pneumococcal vaccination with their doctor, since pneumococcal vaccine recommendations can vary based on age, medical conditions, and previous doses.
• Practice good hygiene: Wash hands regularly, or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
• Don’t smoke, and take steps to quit if you do: Smoking harms many body systems and directly damages the lungs. People who smoke are at greater overall risk of pneumonia because the lungs’ defence mechanisms can become compromised.
• Practice a healthy lifestyle: Seniors should follow a physician-approved diet and exercise regimen. This can help strengthen immune function and reduce the risk of pneumonia.

Comfort Keepers Can Help

Whether clients are recovering from pneumonia or looking to reduce their risk, the care team at Comfort Keepers can help. Our caregivers can remind clients to take their medications, provide transportation to scheduled appointments, and support physician-prescribed exercise regimens and diets. Above all, our goal is to help clients find joy in each day, regardless of age or level of need.

To learn more about our in-home care services, contact your local Comfort Keepers office today.

References:

American Thoracic Society. “Top 20 Pneumonia Facts.” Web. 2018
Mayo Clinic. “Pneumonia -Symptoms and Causes”. Web.
Web MD. “What is Bacterial Pneumonia.” Web. 2016.
Aging.com. “What Causes Pneumonia in the Elderly?” Web. 2018.
American Lung Association. “Lung Health and Diseases: Learn About Pneumonia.” Web. 2018.
Everyday Health. “Pneumonia 101: What You Need to Know.” Web. 2019.