A major concern for carers of people with advanced cancer is just how much they don’t know. Many become stressed and frustrated by what they see as a lack of adequate information. The more they can find out about your illness, the better they will be able to cope.

What may help

Talk to your Doctor

Carers should not hesitate to ask any questions of their doctor, your doctor or other members of your health care team. It may help for them to write down their questions before a consultation or phone call. They can book a longer appointment to give them ample time to talk. The Needs Assessment Tool - Families may help identify any questions they may have.

Talk to you

You may not have told your caregiver everything about your illness, possibly for fear of worrying or overwhelming them. Tell them they should not be afraid to ask you anything, and that you will be as honest as you can in reply.

For more information

A wide variety of information is available for caregivers, much of it accessible online:

Last updated 30 August 2015

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