Those who care for loved ones with a terminal illness, such as
cancer, also need support. They are grieving in the midst of their
care-giving. The National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization
provides solid, helpful suggestions:
- Ask what you can do to help
- Offer specific suggestions for how you can help
- Ask how the illness is affecting them
- Avoid saying "I know what you’re going through," even if you
have been a care-giver; each circumstance is unique; it’s more helpful to
say "I'm so sorry" about their situation
- Listen and look for ways to provide help and support
When the loved one dies and care-giving ends, it’s natural for the
care-giver to feel both relief and grief. They may also feel guilty
about feeling relieved. You can remind them that providing care is
exhausting and that it’s normal to be relieved once it’s complete.
Care-givers often fail to get enough sleep or the right things to eat,
too. As the care-giver goes through the grief process, a reminder to rest
and the offer of a home-cooked meal may be welcome.