Cancer care at home

Recuperating at home, rather than staying in a hospital or care home, can benefit people undergoing cancer treatment. Our Care Professionals can help you manage the unique challenges associated with cancer, including symptom management, medication management, and emotional support.

Cancer Care at Home:

Nourishing Your Body:

Maintaining a nutritious diet is crucial for supporting your recovery. However, cancer treatments may affect appetite and make eating more challenging. Consider the following tips:

1: Smaller, Frequent Meals: Instead of three large meals, aim for smaller, frequent snacks packed with nutrients to keep your energy levels steady.

2: Stay Hydrated: Cancer therapies can lead to dehydration, so in addition to drinking water, include herbal teas, broths, and juices in your routine. Smoothies are a great choice when you don't feel like eating much and can help maintain hydration. You can easily make them by blending frozen fruits (sold in most supermarkets) with water, milk, or yoghurt.

3: Taste Changes: Treatments often affect your sense of taste. Try adding herbs, spices, or citrus to enhance flavours, and be open to trying new foods to stimulate your appetite.

The Royal Marsden Cancer Cookbook is a fantastic resource that provides recipes designed to nourish and support you during and after your treatment.

Staying Active:

While rest is a vital part of recovery, incorporating light physical activity can also be beneficial:

1: Gentle Stretching: Simple stretches like Pilates can help keep your muscles flexible and reduce stiffness from staying still for too long.

2: Light Exercise: A short walk around your home or garden can boost your mood and improve circulation. Having a care professional accompany you can offer support and boost your confidence as you recover from treatment or surgery.

3: Chair Exercises: For those with limited mobility, seated exercises like leg lifts or arm raises offer a safe way to stay active without putting too much strain on your body.

It's essential to consult your doctor before starting any new exercise routine, especially if you have certain types of cancer or are undergoing specific treatments. The Macmillan Cancer Support website provides valuable advice on exercising safely with cancer. You can find more information here.

Emotional Well-being:

Facing a cancer diagnosis and undergoing treatment can be overwhelming. Hence, focusing on your emotional health is as important as physical recovery.

1: Calming Environment: Our care professionals can help maintain a peaceful and organised home environment to support your relaxation and mental rest.

2: Mindfulness Practices: Gentle mindfulness exercises or guided meditations can help alleviate the anxiety associated with cancer. The Headspace app offers a 'Coping with Cancer' meditation series.

3: Stay Connected: Social connections are important for emotional well-being. Whether it's helping you attend a support group or arranging a virtual call with loved ones, our care professionals can help you stay socially engaged.

Getting Good Sleep:

Sleep disruptions are common during cancer treatment, compounded by the stress of the diagnosis itself.

Here are some tips for improving your rest:

1: Establish a Routine: A consistent evening routine can improve sleep quality. Whether enjoying a warm drink, reading a book, or soaking in a bath, find a routine that helps you wind down. Our care professionals can also assist with your bedtime routine to help you relax and get the needed rest.

At Vitale, we are committed to providing high-quality cancer care at home throughout Chichester and the surrounding areas. Our care approach is designed to address your physical, emotional, and mental well-being. Contact us today to arrange an assessment.

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