This section will address issues and information surrounding prostate cancer caregivers, from managing mental health, to coping with loss of sexual intimacy.
See also our general page on cancer caregivers, as well as the Canadian Cancer Society’s resources for caregivers.
Caregiving for advanced prostate cancer
A diagnosis of advanced metastatic prostate cancer presents challenges for both the patient and their family. Difficult conversations and decisions arise, revolving around caregiving responsibilities, palliative treatment options and end-of-life care.
As advanced prostate cancer is more prevalent in older men, diagnosed patients and their spouses may already have other age-related or chronic health issues that affect their mobility and independence. In the presence of one or more comorbidity, advanced prostate cancer is yet another burden to the health concerns of the patient and their family.
While spouses are the most common caregivers of men diagnosed with prostate cancer, adult children may find themselves taking on the role of caregiver. When adult children are busy establishing their lives and raising families of their own, the added distress of seeing a parent in a vulnerable state makes this a difficult time for everyone involved.
Other Caregiving Resources
From CCSN
From other organizations
Canadian Cancer Society – Has some helpful tips for caregivers.
My Prostate Cancer Roadmap – A website designed to provide basic information, practical suggestions, and resources to help you care for your loved one with prostate cancer.
His prostate cancer – This website provides a wealth of information for those who have had someone close to them diagnosed with prostate cancer.
US&TOO – What you need to know about your partner’s prostate cancer – An online brochure as a primer for partners and wives whose loved ones have been diagnosed with prostate cancer.
PCCN – What now? – When your partner has prostate cancer – A brochure provided by Prostate Cancer Canada Network’s Edmonton branch for partners who have a spouse diagnosed.
Cancer care – Caregiving for your loved one with cancer – An online booklet filled with advice from professional oncology social workers from CancerCare.