Key takeaways
- With good organisation and support you can help the person you’re supporting live as independently as possible
- Ensure medications are taken as prescribed and consider using pill organisers for accuracy
- Seek advice from healthcare professionals about necessary equipment
- Create a safe and comfortable home environment for the person you care for, and seek advice about adaptations
Part of your role in supporting someone with cancer might include helping them with medication and equipment. With good organisation, the right support and even some handy products, you can provide care and independence for the person living with cancer. This article by Perci’s cancer nurse specialists covers three essential things to think about.
Medication management
When supporting someone with cancer, you may need to help them with taking their medication. It’s important to follow the prescription details closely, checking the label for the correct name, expiry date, and instructions on how and when to take the medication.
Depending on how complicated the medication regime is and how many different medications there are, a pill organiser may help. A pharmacist can also set up what’s called a ‘monitored dosage system’ (MDS). An MDS is prepared by a pharmacist to organise a person’s medication according to the day of the week and time of day it should be taken. You might also hear it referred to as a blister pack.
Always be aware of any “as required” medications and how to administer them. These might be anti-sickness or pain medications. Remember your pharmacist is always there to help.
Using and organising equipment
Depending on the needs of the person you care for, you might need various pieces of equipment to help with walking, bathing or breathing. An occupational therapist or physiotherapist can assess your home and recommend necessary aids like walking frames, wheelchairs or breathing devices. They can also advise on home adaptations, such as installing handrails or arranging furniture for easier access.
Making the home comfortable
It’s important to create a safe and comfortable environment for the person you care for, that is arranged in a way that works for them and gives them independence. This will include ensuring they can easily reach items, and setting up any necessary equipment. If the person you care for requires significant changes to the home, such as a stair lift or accessible bathroom you can talk this through with the occupational therapist.
While we have ensured that every article is medically reviewed and approved, information presented here is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have any questions or concerns, please talk to one of our healthcare professionals or your primary healthcare team.
References
‘Equipment and home adaptations,’ macmillan.org.uk, April 2023, https://www.macmillan.org.uk/cancer-information-and-support/supporting-someone/practical-support-for-carers/equipment-and-home-adaptations
‘Practical tips for caring for someone with cancer,’ macmillan.org.uk, April 2023, https://www.macmillan.org.uk/cancer-information-and-support/supporting-someone/practical-support-for-carers/practical-tips-for-caring-for-someone-with-cancer
‘Pharmacist Filled Tablet Organiser (MDS),’ daylewis.co.uk, accessed Aug 2024, https://www.daylewis.co.uk/pharmacy-services/mds/