Survivorship – Cancer and Seniors

Seniors who have been diagnosed with cancer and who have won the battle still have problems after the cancer is gone. There is a great amount of physical, emotional, financial and social stress placed on those being treated as well as those who have survived cancer. Below is a list of facts about senior cancer survival. There are also a few tips that can help seniors prevent the recurrence of their cancer.

1. When cancer is detected early and is successfully treated, patients can live for many years after they have been diagnosed. Survival times may be shorted for those who are in the low-income bracket because they typically have little or no health insurance to help with treatments.

2. As a result of cancer treatment, patients and family members face many struggles, including emotional, physical, spiritual and social. These stressors can lead to depression, so it is very important for cancer patients to have a strong support group. This is true even after the cancer has been treated.

3. It is essential to consider the chances of the cancer recurring. Being emotionally prepared will be beneficial if this should happen. Seniors who have a supportive family will benefit greatly from the strength and love of family members.

4. After treatment, senior cancer survivors need to maintain a healthy lifestyle. They should not smoke or drink and they should maintain a healthy weight. Physical activity can also reduce the chances of the cancer recurring.

Source: cdc.gov

Image: coloncancerresource.com

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