Cancer Care in Devon

At Home Care Preferred Devon we understand that finding out you or a loved one has cancer is a shocking, life-changing event. Those affected by cancer may require care and support on a daily basis in the form of medical support and symptom management, as well as home help and personal care. Whilst living with cancer can be an extremely challenging experience, with the right support and treatment put in place to manage the disease many people continue to live normal, happy lives. We believe people dealing with cancer should be able to do so in the comfort of their own homes, surrounded by the people and things they love, in order to ensure they maintain a good quality of life.

What is Cancer?

Over 2 million people are living with cancer in the UK. Cancer is a common condition where cells in specific areas of the body grow and reproduce uncontrollably. The cancerous cells can then invade and destroy surrounding healthy tissues, and organs. More than 331,000 people are diagnosed with cancer in the UK every year. Men are slightly more likely to develop cancer than women. In the UK each year approximately 167,480 men are diagnosed with the condition, whilst the diagnosis rate in women is 64,000. As people age their chances of developing cancer increase, this can vary depending on the specific type of cancer. Almost two thirds of people diagnosed are aged 65 and over.

In the United Kingdom, the four most common types of cancer are breast cancer, lung cancer, prostate cancer and bowel cancer. In 2011 it was found that these types of cancer account for around 53% of all new cases.

There are over 200 different strains of cancer, each will affect the body and develop in different ways – meaning symptoms will vary from person to person. However, the key symptoms to look out for include unexplained lumps, blood in your urine, changes to your bowel habits, unexplained weight loss and changes to, or new, moles. Persistent bloating, sores that won’t heal, unexplained pains and aches and extended periods of coughing, breathlessness and chest pain are also symptoms that can be associated with the illness. This list is not exhaustive; if there are any abnormal changes to a person’s body they should contact their GP.

In many cases a person suffering with cancer will undergo chemotherapy and, or, radiotherapy. Chemotherapy damages dividing cells, meaning it damages cancerous cells and can destroy them. It is a very effective treatment, however there are some side effects. As a result of chemo many people will experience tiredness and weakness, a loss of appetite, nausea and sickness, hair loss and sores and pain in the inside of the mouth. Almost half of people diagnosed with cancer will receive radiotherapy treatment. It involves the use of high-energy radiation to target and shrink or destroy tumours; it is also an effective way of controlling symptoms in incurable cancers. Common short term side effects of radiotherapy include tiredness, hair loss and sore skin.

Despite there being no known cure for cancer currently, with treatment many cancers can be cured and the right care and treatment can allow those with a terminal diagnosis to live comfortable, happy lives for many years. It is important to try and obtain an early diagnosis, this allows you to receive the appropriate treatment, domiciliary care and support in order to continue living as normal a life as possible.

Our Cancer Care and Support

Home Care Preferred knows very well that caring for a loved one with cancer can be a very upsetting, overwhelming time. That is why we train our team members to minimise the disruption being diagnosed with cancer can cause. We provide the support the patient, family and friends need to help them cope and keep a positive mind set. Together, we create a support plan that is tailored to your specific needs and preferences, and is responsive as these requirements change; we work in conjunction with a range of healthcare professionals including doctors, GPs, district nurses, Macmillan nurses and a range of other organisations to make sure you receive the best care for your needs in the comfort of your own home.

Specifically trained to provide cancer support, our team members offer assistance ranging from help around the home to personal care. From meal preparation and household chores, to helping with more personal issues like washing and toileting – Home Care Preferred are there to carry out all the practical care aspects with warmth and discretion, giving family and friends the opportunity to spend significant periods of quality time with their loved one in between.

Our support assistants are also there to offer emotional support and companionship. They understand that while helping their clients with the medical aspects of cancer support, or aiding in practical duties such a shopping and laundry is important, so is reminiscing and chatting about shared interests in order to boost a patient’s morale. We are there to support the whole family and offer support, compassion and reassurance. This is why we ensure you are matched with a support assistant who not only has the relevant skill set, but also has a complementary personality to ensure strong bonds and both the patient and their loved ones are put at ease.

Our cancer care and support includes:

Support with personal care that is tailored to each individual
Visiting care that can adapt as your needs change, supporting complex medication regimes
Short regular visits through to longer visits, night care, respite or a full time live in carer
Specialist support assistants who are trained to help them understand the complexities of various types of cancer

Letting a carer into the home of you or your loved one isn’t an easy decision. Understandably people have lots of questions and reservations about cancer care at home. Our friendly, highly experienced team members are always available to answer any questions you might have. We’re happy to talk you through each of the steps involved in the cancer care and support we offer, and offer compassionate, impartial advice when wanted.

Find out more about cancer from the Cancer Research UK and the NHS website.