Recuperating at home, rather than staying in a hospital or care home, can benefit people undergoing cancer treatment. Our Chichester-based Care Professionals offer cancer care at home. They can help you manage the unique challenges associated with cancer, including symptom management, medication management, and emotional support.
This article shares some practical tips for diet, recovery, and well-being.
Eat Well:
A balanced, nutrient-rich diet is crucial for supporting cancer recovery. Many patients experience changes in appetite or difficulty eating due to side effects from the treatment. Here are some tips to help:
- Little and often: Instead of large meals, focus on small, frequent, nutrient-dense snacks to help you maintain energy levels.
- Hydration is key: Cancer treatments can cause dehydration. In addition to water, have plenty of herbal teas, broth-based soups, and fruit and vegetable juices on hand. Smoothies are a great option if you don’t feel like eating and can keep your hydration levels up. Most supermarkets sell frozen fruit, which you can whizz with water, milk or yoghurt in a blender.
- Changing Tastes: Cancer treatments can alter taste, making some foods you love unappealing. Experiment with herbs, spices, or citrus to make foods more appealing, and try new foods to tempt your appetite.
The Royal Marsden Cancer Cookbook is an excellent resource for exploring the foods that will support and nourish you during and after treatment.
Move Well:
Rest is essential for your recovery, but so too is gentle movement:
- Simply Stretch: Gentle Pilates-like stretches help keep muscles flexible and prevent stiffness from prolonged inactivity.
- Get Moving: Short walks around the home, your garden and further afield can lift your mood and improve circulation. Having your care professional with you can help you feel more confident as you recuperate from surgery or treatment.
- Stay Seated: If you are less mobile, consider chair exercises, like seated leg lifts or arm raises. These can provide the light movement you need without strain.
It’s important to remember that people with certain types of cancer or who are receiving specific treatments might need to avoid some types of exercise. So, it is vital to consult your doctor. The Macmillan Cancer Support website has lots of information on exercising safely when you have cancer. Find out more HERE.
Healthy Minds & Happy Heads:
There is no doubt that cancer diagnosis and treatment can add a lot to your plate, so maintaining emotional well-being is vital.
- Stay Calm: Our care professionals can ensure your home stays organised so you have a quiet and calm space to help with rest and relaxation.
- Mind your Mind: Gentle mindfulness techniques or guided meditations can help you cope with the anxiety associated with cancer diagnosis and treatment. Headspace offers a ‘Coping with Cancer’ course.
- Stay Social: Our care professionals can help you maintain the social connections vital for your emotional health. Whether you need a lift to a support group or a FaceTime call with family, they can help you.
Get Some Zzzs:
Some cancer treatments can disrupt sleep. Add this to the melting pot of anxiety around your diagnosis, and you may find rest and relaxation hard to come by.
- Relaxing Routine: A consistent bedtime routine can promote better sleep habits. Whether that’s a hot drink, a chapter of your book, or a relaxing bath, find the right routine to help you relax. Remember that our Care Professionals can help you with your nighttime routine.
At Vitale, we proudly provide cancer care at home in and around Chichester. We will always focus on your physical, emotional, and mental well-being, personalising your cancer care to address your practical needs. Contact us to book an assessment.
