Q – My elderly mother was recently diagnosed with a chronic illness which they cannot treat because of her age. Can you provide me with any tips to help her cope with the unpleasant news that she recently received?

Coming to terms with the fact that you have a serious, even chronic illness is never easy, whether the news comes in your senior years or during the early stages of your life, you are forced to face your own mortality. Senior health can change quickly and drastically, so often receiving the news of a crippling illness, such as cancer can come as a serious shock.

To help your mother cope with the unpleasant news that she received, relating to her chronic illness, work with her to implement the following steps to increase her knowledge and drive her towards acceptance.

1. Get support – seniors can join support groups for those coping with chronic illnesses or seek independent support. Speaking with someone impartial, who is not a close family member or friend can be beneficial, since they will be better able to listen without becoming upset.
2. Keep records – maintain detailed records regarding medical history and treatment recommended by each doctor visited during the course of the illness.
3. Seek knowledge – learn as much as possible about the illness including symptoms, treatment methods and common procedures and operations.
4. Find a health advocate – seniors can benefit from having an escort at appointments, to keep records and assist with decisions
5. Accept your feelings – it’s okay to feel angry, sad or resentful for the cards you’ve been dealt; allow yourself to run the gamut of emotions and allow yourself to grieve.
6. Find acceptance – come to terms with your illness at your own stage.

Sources:-
1. Cancer journal
2. Carol O’Dell Blog

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