We know how big a responsibility it is to take care of a loved one battling cancer at home. Between doctor visits, medication, household chores, work, and personal life, life can feel like a chaotic mess. It's normal to feel like you're struggling to do all of this on your own, even with family and friends.
When should we seek outside help?
First, think about the situation at home. Is there any lack of care for the patient? You can discuss this with the medical team at the hospital. They will then tell you what areas you need more help in.
There are a few main areas where help may generally be needed:
- Medical and nursing care: Medical matters such as managing medications, cleaning wounds , and applying medication.
- Personal care: Things like bathing, dressing, and helping with walking.
- Psychological support: Talk to the patient, be supportive and don't let them feel alone.
- Household chores: Things like cleaning the house, doing laundry, going to the store to get groceries, and cooking.
Also, think about your family members who are already helping you. Don't they also need a break to do their own personal work, relax, and unwind? It is very important that the person caring for the patient is healthy and happy .
What help is available at home?
There are various people who provide home care services. You can choose the right person according to your needs. Let's see who they are.
| Help type | What are the tasks? | How to find? |
|---|---|---|
| Skilled Nurse (RN) |
| You can find one through a home health care agency. Your doctor can recommend one. |
| Home Health Aide |
| These people can also be found through healthcare organizations. But remember, they may not have special licenses. Therefore, ask the organization about their background (background check) before hiring them. |
| Housekeeper/Personal Attendant |
| You can get referrals from staffing agencies, friends, or family. Since you are hiring these people as independent contractors, you should research their details and payments yourself. |
| Companion/Respite Care |
| You can find people who volunteer through community-level organizations and religious places (such as temples and churches). |
| Oncology Social Worker |
| You can contact national-level organizations that support cancer patients (e.g., Sri Lanka Cancer Society). |
The most important thing is to get a copy of their ID before hiring someone, ask for details from previous places of employment, and if possible, meet and talk in person. Trust is the key here.
Other services available in addition to this
In addition to the above, you can access a variety of other services. These can also be found through various institutions and community organizations.
- Dietician or nutritionist: Prepare a diet that is most suitable for the patient.
- Emergency alert service: A way to request help with a single button in the event of an emergency.
- Meal delivery service: Services that allow you to deliver food to your home.
- Transportation: Arrange a vehicle to get to and from the hospital or clinic.
How can these expenses be covered?
There are several ways to cover the cost of these services. Typically, a combination of insurance and out-of-pocket costs is used.
Government health plans
In foreign countries, home care services are covered through government insurance schemes such as ``Medicare`` for the elderly and ``Medicaid`` for low-income people. If your patient is a veteran, they may also be able to provide some services through them. In Sri Lanka, you can inquire about this at the social services department of the government hospital.
Private insurance
If you or the patient has private medical insurance, check with your insurance company to see if they cover home care services. Not all insurance companies cover these services. Some companies may only cover things like professional nursing services. Therefore, read your insurance policy carefully and ask the company for details before receiving a service.
Self pay
Often, long-term support services and the services of friends and family members have to be paid for out of their own pocket.
Community groups
Sometimes community-based organizations and foundations help with these costs. You can talk to places like these:
- The Sri Lanka Cancer Society
- Community clubs like Rotary or Lions
- Major religious centers in the area
Caring for a cancer patient is not something you can do alone. Asking for help is not a sign of weakness, it is a sign that you care about yourself and your loved one. With the right support, you and your loved one will be able to get through this difficult time more easily.
Take-Home Message
- It's normal to feel like you need help when caring for a cancer patient at home. Don't be afraid to ask for help.
- First identify what type of help you need (medical, personal, homework).
- Ask your doctor or hospital staff about trusted home care providers.
- Before hiring someone, verify their background, previous work experience, and identity.
- Check with your insurance, community organizations, and other financial assistance sources to help cover expenses.
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