Cancer touches the lives of many families, and its impact can feel especially overwhelming when it affects an aging parent or loved one. At Shaughnessy, a trusted retirement home in Port Coquitlam, we understand how important it is for families to feel informed, supported, and empowered – whether navigating a recent diagnosis, learning how to reduce risk, or simply knowing how to be there for someone going through a difficult time.
Why Cancer Awareness Is Especially Important for Seniors
As people age, the risk of developing cancer increases. In fact, the majority of cancer diagnoses occur in adults over the age of 65. While this can sound daunting, many types of cancer are treatable, especially when caught early. That’s why awareness, prevention, and compassionate care are so critical.
Families and caregivers play an essential role in helping seniors stay on top of screenings and make healthy lifestyle choices. Long-term care communities like Shaughnessy are also key partners in promoting whole-person health, from physical well-being to emotional support.
Understanding the Link Between Aging and Cancer
Growing older means a greater chance of developing cancer, largely because the body has had more time to accumulate the kinds of cell damage that can lead to the disease. The most common types among older adults include breast, prostate, lung, and colorectal cancer.
However, aging should not be a cause for fear; it’s simply a reminder to stay proactive. Early action, regular checkups, and informed support can make a powerful difference.
Early Detection: A Lifesaving Step
Many cancers are highly treatable when detected early. That’s why it’s important for older adults to:
- Schedule routine screenings (e.g., mammograms, colonoscopies, skin checks)
- Watch for changes in health, such as unexplained weight loss, fatigue, or new lumps
- Speak openly with their healthcare provider about family history or new symptoms
In a long-term care setting, staff can help coordinate appointments, monitor health changes, and advocate for timely screenings. For adult children, it’s helpful to ask your loved one’s care team how often these checks are done and what signs they’re watching for.
Reducing Risk Through Healthy Choices
While we can’t prevent every illness, there are lifestyle choices that may help reduce cancer risk. These include:
- Eating a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
- Staying physically active with age-appropriate movement
- Quitting smoking and limiting alcohol
- Protecting skin from sun exposure
- Managing chronic conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure
Good mental health also plays a role. Staying socially engaged, reducing stress, and participating in enjoyable activities can all support overall well-being.
At Shaughnessy, our senior community in Port Coquitlam encourages a holistic approach to health, helping residents find balance in their daily routines.
Supporting a Loved One Through a Cancer Diagnosis
Receiving a cancer diagnosis can be emotional for both the person affected and their family. If your parent or loved one has recently been diagnosed, here are a few ways you can offer support:
- Be present and listen without trying to “fix” everything
- Respect their choices and pace as they process the news
- Offer help with practical tasks – rides to appointments, managing paperwork, or communicating with doctors
- Encourage social connection and emotional expression
- Lean on available support networks for caregivers and family members
Support doesn’t mean having all the answers. Often, it’s about simply being there and showing your loved one they’re not alone.
How Long-Term Care Can Make a Difference
When facing a serious illness like cancer, the right care environment can offer tremendous peace of mind. Long-term care residences like Shaughnessy provide:
- Daily support with personal care, nutrition, and medication management
- Close coordination with healthcare providers, specialists, and palliative care teams
- Emotional and social support, including group activities and peer companionship
- Comfortable surroundings that reduce stress and allow for rest and recovery
This kind of full-circle support benefits not only residents but their families, too. Knowing your loved one is cared for in a warm, professional setting can ease the emotional and logistical load for adult children and caregivers.
Staying Informed and Empowered
Whether you’re researching cancer prevention, helping your parent stay healthy, or walking beside them through a diagnosis, know that support is available. Learning the basics of early detection and risk reduction can help you make confident decisions and give your loved one the best possible quality of life.
At Shaughnessy, we’re proud to offer a compassionate, informed approach to care. Our team is here to answer questions, provide comfort, and support every step of the journey.
Book a Tour and Learn More
If you’d like to learn how our retirement home in Port Coquitlam supports senior health and wellness, we invite you to book a tour. Whether you’re considering care for a loved one or simply exploring options, we’re here to help you feel informed, supported, and empowered.