Caregiver Support

• Caring for someone with pulmonary fibrosis can be both challenging and highly rewarding
• You may face some challenges you might not have previously thought about when being a caregiver
• Palliative care, end of life care and power of attorney are some other things to consider when caring for someone with pulmonary fibrosis

Caring for a loved one is often associated with a roller coaster of emotions, which can be both physically and mentally exhausting. It is important to recognize these feelings – both positive and negative. Be reassured that it is normal to feel a range of emotions during this time.

While caring for someone with pulmonary fibrosis, you may face many challenges and may have to consider things you haven’t thought about, such as:

• What support is available for you as you provide care from home
• Understanding the differences between palliative care and end-of-life care
• Legal and financial matters you have never had to deal with before
• What support is available to help you cope with the emotional challenges of being a caregiver

Some additional areas to consider when caring for someone include:

1. Palliative care: A type of care that assures the patient and those in their life experience optimal quality of life as the disease progresses. This includes all dimensions of life including symptom management and social, spiritual and psychological needs.
2. End-of-life care: Towards the end of life, specialist care is needed. As a caregiver, you can also find support. Talk to your palliative care team to learn more.
3. Power of attorney guidance: Setting up a power of attorney lets your loved one choose someone to manage certain decisions if they wish.