Bowel cancer care at home
Compassionate cancer care at home from trained, experienced Care Professionals who understand the physical and emotional struggles of treating or managing bowel cancer.
What is bowel cancer care?
Bowel cancer affects any area of the large bowel, including the colon and rectum, and according to Cancer Research UK, it is the 4th most common type of cancer in the UK.
Symptoms of bowel cancer can include changes in stool consistency and bowel habits, such as diarrhoea or constipation, needing to have bowel movements more frequently, blood in stool, rectal bleeding, tummy pain, a lump in the abdomen, bloating, and unintended weight loss. As bowel cancer progresses, a patient with this condition may require care, such as:
- Personal care and hygiene support
- Companionship and emotional support
- Mobility assistance
- Home help and running errands (such as cleaning and grocery shopping)
Stoma management if needed after bowel surgery
Why is bowel cancer care at home important for older adults?
The World Health Organization recommends older adults be cared for in their own homes for as long as possible, and studies suggest home-based cancer care could have benefits for quality of life in cancer patients. One study of cancer patients suggested treatment at home led to higher levels of patient satisfaction, with more than 90% of patients feeling treatment at home was less distressing than going into hospital.
Care at home can help to:
- Promote independence and maintain quality of life while living with bowel cancer
- Enable more family visits
- Facilitate more engagement with the community to avoid loneliness
- Help the person remain in familiar, comfortable surroundings
Reduce their stress levels while going through cancer treatment
Do I need bowel cancer care?
Not everyone requires care at home for bowel cancer, but depending on the progression of their condition, some people may need a little more help at home in order to continue their usual routines, engage in enjoyable hobbies, and maintain their quality of life.
The symptoms of bowel cancer will be different for everyone and can change over time. Our Care Professionals offer flexible care options and are able to adapt by increasing or decreasing your level of care as your condition changes.
You might need short-term postoperative care following a surgery for bowel cancer, long-term palliative care to manage cancer pain, or just companionship once a week to talk about how you are feeling. Whatever type of home care you need, we can help.
How can we help?
We've helped thousands of families to stay safe, comfortable and happy at home. Whatever situation you're facing, or whatever the question is, Home Instead is here to help.
Are you in need of a little guidance right away?
03300 583450Are you in need of a little guidance right away?
03300 583450
I am very happy with the support, care and kindness I receive from all the staff of Home Instead.B.M, Client
I have had my care from Home Instead for almost ten years and things just keep getting better. I can’t praise them enough.Kevan, Client
From day one Home Instead has given us a first-class professional caring service. Office staff and carers very helpful and understanding.Paul and Sandra, Clients
Get in touch today to
see how we can help
How to get started arranging bowel cancer care
Whether you are newly diagnosed with bowel cancer or you have been managing symptoms for a while, our Care Professionals can work to create a care plan that supports your everyday routines. Doing so can help you continue enjoyable activities, stay active if possible, and achieve goals, all of which can foster a positive mindset during your treatment or while living with bowel cancer.
It is usually helpful to start by speaking to your GP to arrange a Care Needs Assessment which can indicate what type of care could help you. If you decide bowel cancer care could be beneficial, our experienced Care Professionals take the time to learn your unique needs and provide flexible, compassionate care that fits into your life.
Why Home Instead?
Our Care Professionals can work to support the clinical team in charge of your medical care, and design a care routine tailored to your needs. With our help, you can continue to live at home, and your dedicated Care Professional can help you get adequate rest, prepare nutritious meals to enhance your health, maintain hygiene practices to avoid infections, and take on strenuous household tasks to take stress off your plate.
We are proudly rated 9.6 on Homecare.co.uk, with many of our locations also rated “outstanding” by the Care Quality Commission (CQC), so you can be sure our experienced Care Professionals will provide the highest standard of care in the place where you feel most comfortable.
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FAQs
What kind of support can home care provide for elderly people with bowel cancer?
Our Care Professionals assist with daily tasks like bathing, dressing, and meal preparation. They also provide support with stoma care, medication management, and symptom monitoring to ensure the patient’s comfort and well-being.
How can home care help manage symptoms and side effects of bowel cancer or its treatment?
Our trained Care Professionals can help manage common symptoms like pain, fatigue, nausea, and bowel irregularities. They also monitor for side effects of treatments such as chemotherapy or radiotherapy and liaise with healthcare providers to adjust care plans as needed.
Can home care teams assist with stoma care for elderly bowel cancer patients?
Yes, our Care Professionals are trained to provide stoma care, including cleaning, changing stoma bags, and monitoring for signs of infection or irritation, ensuring the patient’s comfort and hygiene are maintained.
How does home care provide emotional and psychological support for elderly patients and their families?
Our Care Professionals can offer companionship, a listening ear, and reassurance to both patients and their families. They can also connect families with counseling services or support groups to help them navigate the emotional challenges of bowel cancer.
How does home care ensure a safe and comfortable environment for elderly bowel cancer patients?
All our Care Professionals are trained to assess the home for safety hazards, assist with mobility to prevent falls, and create a supportive environment tailored to the patient’s physical and emotional needs.