How cancer caregivers can take care of themselves

Caring for a loved one with cancer is a full-time effort. But, while that role is a vital part of cancer treatment, it’s also important that caregivers make sure they’re dedicating some time to their own wellness, which can sometimes feel secondary in the aftermath of serious diagnoses.

“As a caregiver, it is especially important to take time for yourself and engage in meaningful activities that you enjoy,” says Julie DeBord, MSW, LISW-S, manager of the OSUCCC – James’ JamesCare for Life (JCFL) program. “This is not about making time for a shower or to go to the grocery. Make a plan and schedule time each week for activities that help you feel centered and connected to others.”

To help caregivers find some focus for their own health and happiness, JCFL experts are sharing info, tips and techniques for better nutrition, exercise, sleep and more.

Nutrition

“Plan your meals in advance by writing out your meal plan and shopping for what you need. And if you can prep things in advance like chopping vegetables, this will help preparing your meals go a lot faster. Choose foods with lots of color like dark leafy greens and orange sweet potatoes. These foods can help support your immune system to keep you healthy.” — Candice Schreiber, RDN, LS, registered dietitian

Click here to learn more about nutrition info and services from OSUCCC – James experts.

Exercise

“There are many benefits to exercise, and you should take time out every day to get some activity in. Exercise can help improve your mood and your mental health making you more positive throughout the day to complete the things that you need to exercise also helps to improve your quality of sleep. The best benefit of exercise may be that you can invite a friend and make it fun.” — Julie Leffler, PT, CLT-LANA, oncology rehabilitation specialist

Click here to learn more about physical well-being at the OSUCCC – James.

Sleep

“Good sleep can help promote stress management and overall mental and physical health. Engage in things that are relaxing and calming to help the body relax, which can help transition our body easier into good sleep. Thirty to 60 minutes before bed, turn off your electronics — you really want to de-stimulate the brain to relax your mind and body.” — Katlin Schultz, Psy.D., rehabilitation psychologist

Proper breathing

“Diaphragmatic breathing is an evidence-based practice that reduces stress and anxiety and is great for patients and caregivers. Put one hand on your chest and one hand on your belly, and when you are breathing, your belly should be moving more than your chest. Breathe in, relaxing your abdominal muscles. And then exhale, slowly contracting your abdominal muscles back towards your spine.” — Kathy Thompson, MS, APRN-CNS, mindfulness specialist

Recreation

“We encourage caregivers to seek out play — blocks, coloring, painting, board games, you name it. Find something that provides a little spark of joy throughout our day. Turn on some music, dance and get silly — seek joy through a pop of play, on purpose. — Sami Rundo, CCLS, certified child life specialist

Click here to learn more about supportive services for cancer patients and caregivers through JamesCare for Life.