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For Your Caregiver

At Winship Cancer Institute of Emory University, we acknowledge the crucial role your caregiver plays in providing assistance and advocating for you as a patient with cancer.

Middle aged man comforting spouse (stock image)

The Role of a Caregiver

A caregiver is anyone responsible for your care and assists you in managing your illness. Caregivers provide vital support and are an integral part of your health care team and cancer care experience.

Caregivers offer physical, practical and emotional support, often family members or friends, though sometimes professional caregivers are hired.

Possible Duties of a Caregiver

Caregivers may perform various duties, including:

  • Advocating on your behalf
  • Helping you adhere to medication guidelines
  • Ensuring necessary medical visits are scheduled
  • Monitoring and managing some side effects
  • Assisting with daily living activities like cooking, bill paying, cleaning and other tasks
  • Providing encouragement and maintaining a positive attitude

Tips and Resources for Your Caregiver

Here are ways to support your caregiver, whether they are experienced or new to caregiving:

  • Encourage self-care through rest, exercise and proper nutrition
  • Remind them to keep their own doctor appointments
  • Suggest they do something for themselves daily
  • Join a support group specifically for caregivers offered by Winship
  • Be open to asking for and accepting help

Above all, caregivers should remain flexible and not strive for perfection.

It's important for caregivers to stay updated with vaccinations, particularly the annual flu shot, when caring for a cancer patient.

The American Cancer Society provides valuable online resources for caregivers to help with learning how to care for themselves as a caregiver, better understand what their loved one is going through, develop skills for coping and caring, and take steps to help protect their own health and well-being.