Caregiving Options
If you are like many caregivers, you may have assumed the role without a clear idea of what actually is involved in taking care of a person with lung cancer. Your specific responsibilities may depend on the stage of your loved one's illness. Your duties may include providing personal care, assisting with dispensing medicine, keeping a household running smoothly, raising children, communicating with doctors, and negotiating with insurance providers and social services—and that's not a complete list!
If at any time you need a professional to assume some or all of the care for your loved one, you can choose from a variety of options. As with most decisions you'll face as a caregiver, it's a good idea to plan ahead for this need instead of waiting for a crisis.
The choice you and your loved one make about the type of care needed will be a personal one. Some people with advanced cancer may choose to pursue every possible medical treatment option. Others may choose palliative care, which focuses on providing comfort and enhancing quality of life. Before making any decisions, check your medical insurance coverage. Often, a person with advanced lung cancer may be eligible to have a visiting nurse assess what type and level of care is needed and ensure that appropriate care is provided.
This section offers general information to help you choose caregiving options. To go directly to a specific area, click on a topic below.
Home Care
Respite Care
Nursing Home
Hospice