When a family member is diagnosed with mesothelioma cancer, it is common for a relative to assume the responsibilities of a caregiver, but this is not always possible and many mesothelioma patients require additional care that can be fulfilled by in-home care provided by a medical professional.

Mesothelioma is a rare cancer almost exclusively caused by asbestos exposure. It can affect the thin, protective membrane surrounding the lungs, heart or abdominal cavity. As the cancer progresses, the symptoms often become more pronounced, and it becomes harder for a relative to adequately care for their loved one.

Regardless of the stage or severity of the cancer, mesothelioma patients and their families often benefit from additional professional in-home care.

Benefits of In-Home Mesothelioma Care

Home health care can enhance a mesothelioma patient’s overall quality of life.

Unfortunately, the typical life expectancy of a mesothelioma patient is about one year after the initial diagnosis. Instead of spending this time in an unfamiliar assisted-living center, home health care can provide mesothelioma patients with the comfort and familiarity of their own home.

The ability to receive in-home care also provides the patient with a high level of social support. They will remain close to any nearby family and friends, and can even remain close to any household pets, which may be hard to part with. The interactions between the patient and those they love are an important part in the recovery process, as well as making the patient feel comfortable after a diagnosis.

In-home care can also lend a patient’s family some relief by providing a number of services, including:

  • Administering proper medications and treatments
  • Daily professional medical supervision
  • Meal preparations
  • Light housekeeping
  • Assist in bathing, brushing teeth and getting dressed

Many mesothelioma patients enjoy receiving health care in the comfort of their own home. Although most home health care services do not provide round-the-clock care, most caregivers will provide a phone number in case of emergencies, which allows patients and their families a sense of security and support.

Author bio: Kaitlyn Teabo is a writer for The Mesothelioma Center. She combines her interests in writing, cancer research and emerging scientific technology to educate the mesothelioma community about asbestos and its related diseases.

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