According to the Mayo Clinic, women over the age of 60 have an increased chance of developing breast cancer. Older women that have a family history of breast cancer or exposure to radiation from treatment for another cancer are at an elevated risk for developing breast cancer. Conducting at-home breast examinations is important for all women. However, it is critical for older women to perform breast examinations given their increased risk for developing breast cancer.
If you or an older loved one has been diagnosed with breast cancer, there are several treatment options. According to the American Cancer Association, available treatment options include but are not limited to: chemotherapy, radiation therapy, hormone therapy, targeted therapy, and surgery. Choosing a treatment is a very personal decision that occurs between the patient, her family, and the medical team. If you’re supporting an older woman during breast cancer treatment, BreastCancerCare reminds individuals to listen to patients’ experiences with empathy and patience. Several studies indicate that older women will want to regain a sense of normalcy quickly after treatment. This usually includes restoring independence. Discuss with your loved one how she can regain her independence and stay safe.
Hearing that you or a loved one has a breast cancer diagnosis is unimaginable. Yet, it happens to millions of women everyday. If you or someone you love is battling breast cancer, social support is a critical piece of maintaining a high quality of life. Visit with your loved one often and provide emotional support. If you live far away or have a busy schedule that keeps you from visiting, work with your loved one to find a local support group. Connecting with others who share a cancer diagnosis could be the first step to finding life long friends during this difficult time.
Doolittle Home retirement community sets the standard in Massachusetts for quality care. We are proud of the staff and board of trustees who make this possible. Doolittle’s licensed nursing staff is on-site 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Family members know that their loved ones are receiving the best possible care, giving them total peace of mind. To schedule a tour call DeAnna Willis 508.543.2694. Click Here For A Virtual Tour
References:
The Mayo Clinic. (1998-2012). Risk Factors. Retrieved on September 10, 2012 from: http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/breast-cancer/DS00328/DSECTION=risk-factors
American Cancer Society. (2012). Treatments and Side Effects. Retrieved on September 10, 2012 from: http://www.cancer.org/Treatment/TreatmentsandSideEffects/index
Breast Cancer Care. (2012). Partners, Friends, and Family. Retriever September 10, 2012 from: http://www.breastcancercare.org.uk/family-friends-partners%20