6 Tips for Dealing with a Life Changing Illness
When you, a family member, or a friend are diagnosed with a chronic disease, life can suddenly feel a lot more frightening and complicated. But coping with this unsettling news and taking control where you can puts you in a better position for tackling your chronic illness head on.
The CDC defines a chronic disease as, “conditions that last 1 year or more and require ongoing medical attention or limit activities of daily living or both.” Examples of chronic diseases are diabetes, Parkinson’s disease, cancer, and heart disease.
Coping After a Chronic Health Diagnosis
It’s impossible to know exactly how much a diagnosis will affect you. Your life may have to be altered in significant ways, or perhaps even shortened. However, there’s also a possibility that you will be able to manage your condition well enough to prevent it from impacting your life. It is the uncertainty that causes a lot of anxiety for seniors and their families.
But strategies like the below can help you manage your feelings and prioritize your health during this time. As with many things in life, taking multiple approaches can lead to the best solutions.
Take Time to Process
Following the diagnosis, you’re likely experiencing a range of emotions, including denial, sadness, and anger. It’s important to give yourself time to work through these feelings. Talk to your close friends and family members, or if you need to, spend some time alone meditating or journaling your thoughts.
Regain Control
It’s natural to feel as if you don’t have any control over your health following a tough diagnosis, but that’s untrue. You have the ability to do things like seek a second opinion, research information regarding your particular diagnosis, and consider alternative remedies, among other options. Even taking proactive steps like the ones listed here can help you regain a sense of control over your life.
Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle
Another way to feel in control of your situation is by embracing healthy eating, exercising if possible, and ensuring you’re getting adequate sleep. Treating your body well will help support your immune system while undergoing any necessary treatment.
Focus on What You Can Do
Yes, life has changed, and will continue to, but that doesn’t mean you have to automatically give up your hobbies and interests. Spend time participating in gentle activities that are also fun, like yoga, swimming, and creating art. Many of these past times are also therapeutic, and will only enhance your overall well being.
Get Support
Your family and friends are hopefully rallying around you. Don’t be afraid to accept their help, whether it’s in the form of a prepared meal or transportation to doctor’s appointments. Additionally, your support network can include people with the same condition. It’s helpful to talk to someone in similar circumstances who understand the specific frustrations of your illness. Your doctor will likely be able to offer additional recommendations for finding support in the Chelmsford area.
Seek Further Assistance
Navigating a serious diagnosis can be overwhelming, no matter how many loved ones you have in your corner. Consider speaking with a counselor if you feel you need professional support.
Visiting Angels is Here to Help
If you or your senior loved one has recently been diagnosed with an illness or disease, Visiting Angels Chelmsford is here to help you and your family throughout your health journey. Our palliative care services offer a holistic, whole-body approach to non-medical in-home assistance for those with chronic conditions. Our caregivers work in conjunction with your medical team to help provide emotional support, assist with daily tasks, and combat the loneliness and isolation that often accompanies illness.
For more information about our flexible care options or to set up a free initial consultation, please contact us via our online form or by calling 978-244-0200.