When someone you care about is diagnosed with a life-altering or life-threatening illness, it can be hard to know what to say or do. They may be feeling vulnerable, anxious, or even alone. This is the time they need support and understanding from their loved ones more than ever.

How to Be There for Your Loved One

1. Offer Specific Help

   • Instead of saying, “Let me know if you need anything,” offer help with specific tasks like cooking, transportation, or simply sitting with them after a doctor’s visit.

2. Be a Good Listener

   • Allow them to express their feelings freely without judgment or advice unless requested. Sometimes, listening is the most valuable gift you can give.

3. Educate Yourself About Their Condition

   • Knowledge can be powerful. Understanding their illness and treatment can make you a better support system, even though it’s best to share advice only if they ask.

4. Stay Consistently Present

   • Illness can involve lengthy treatment periods, so it’s important to stay involved and check in regularly beyond the initial diagnosis.

5. Ask How They’d Like Support

   • Respect their preferences on how they want to be treated and supported. Offer help with tasks that might be overwhelming, like managing finances or legal paperwork, if they are open to it.

6. Share Memories and Create New Ones

   • Take trips down memory lane by sharing stories or looking through old photos. Consider creating a legacy project together, like a journal or a video, to preserve their experiences and stories.

Dos and Don’ts When Talking to Someone with a Serious Illness

Do’s

• Let them know you’re there to listen.
• Be honest if you feel awkward—authenticity often brings comfort.
• Use non-verbal gestures like a hug if you’re lost for words.
• Call, text, or email if you can’t visit, just to let them know they’re on your mind.
• Keep your relationship as normal as possible, using humor when appropriate.

Don’ts

• Avoid saying, “I know how you feel.” Each experience is unique.
• Refrain from phrases like “You’ll be okay” or “Everything’s going to be alright.” They may need to share their truth, even if it’s hard to hear.
• Don’t urge them to “Stay positive.” It’s important they feel safe expressing how they truly feel.
• Don’t assume they want to be left out of events; always check in with them.

Five Meaningful Actions When Caring for Someone Facing a Health Challenge

1. Expect and Embrace Change

   • Illness can be unpredictable. Be prepared to adapt your support as their needs evolve.

2. Build a Support Team

   • Bring together a circle of friends, family, neighbors, and healthcare professionals who can help with day-to-day care and companionship.

3. Create a Safe Environment

   • Small actions, like ensuring medications are correctly taken and food is fresh, go a long way in safeguarding their comfort and well-being.

4. Stay Informed

   • Do research, ask questions, and seek second opinions when necessary. Learning from others’ experiences can help guide you through challenges.

5. Consider Professional Care Assistance

   • If personal support isn’t sufficient, look into home health services for specialized help, which can ease caregiving burdens.

Advocating for Your Loved One at Medical Appointments

Preparation Tips

• Ask if they want help before stepping in. Clarify you’re there to support, not to take over.
• Take notes during appointments to remember what the doctor says.
• Ensure clear communication by asking follow-up questions if anything is unclear.
• Request a medication review every six months to manage dosages, side effects, and interactions.
• Discuss treatment costs; sometimes, doctors can offer sample medications or cost-effective alternatives.

Need Extra Support?

At Senior Healthcare Advisors, we’re here to help you maximize Medicare benefits, ensuring you get the support you need during these challenging times. Whether it’s understanding eligibility, enrollment, or coverage, give us a call today—our team is ready to guide you every step of the way.