Coping with being less independent because of a brain tumour
Whether you’ve been diagnosed with a brain tumour or you’re caring for someone who has, you might feel less independent than you used to. But, there are ways of coping with this.
On this page:
- How could a brain tumour diagnosis affect your independence?
- How to cope with being less independent because of a brain tumour
How could a brain tumour diagnosis affect your independence?
If you’ve been diagnosed with a brain tumour
The physical or cognitive challenges you experience might mean you now need help with everyday tasks. These could be dressing, shopping or even socialising.
If you’re not able to work anymore, you might need to depend on your partner or family financially too.
Losing your driver’s license can also be difficult. It means you’ll need to rely on loved ones or public transport to get around. And, for some people, it can also feel like it represents all the ways they’ve become less independent because of their diagnosis.
If your loved one has been diagnosed with a brain tumour
The additional caring responsibilities of looking after someone with a brain tumour can make you feel like you’ve lost some independence.
These can be especially difficult if you’re balancing them with your career or raising a family.
How to cope with being less independent because of a brain tumour
Here are some tips to help you cope with a loss of independence after a brain tumour diagnosis.
Some might help you if you’ve been diagnosed while others are better for carers. Choose the tips that best help you cope.
Accept that you need help
Relying on others for help doesn’t mean you’re weak or a burden. It’s just necessary because of the limitations from your brain tumour diagnosis.
Accept that you need help from your loved ones and do your best not to feel guilty about it.
Speak openly about your level of independence
Your loved ones might not know how much help you need and in which areas.
Talk openly with family and friends about what you need and what is hard for you to do. And, let them know how they can help you.
It could also help to educate people outside of your inner circle about the effects of your brain tumour. This could help them understand your needs better.
Find support systems
It might help to talk with other people in similar situations.
You can find support groups, either online or in person, where you can connect with other people affected by a brain tumour.
Find out if you can claim financial benefits
Relying on your loved ones financially might feel like a loss of independence. But, you might be able to claim certain financial benefits.
Our online benefits checker is a good way to find out which benefits you might be eligible for. And, our benefits clinic could help you with the application process if you’re eligible.
Assistive technology
Look into assistive devices that can help with daily tasks. These could be reminders and calendars on your phone, mobility aids, or communication tools.Â
Care for yourself
If you’re able, focus on healthy habits. These could be getting regular exercise, eating a balanced diet, getting enough sleep, and using relaxation techniques to manage stress and fatigue.Â
Get professional guidance
Losing some of your independence can affect your mental health.
If this is the case, speak with a therapist or counsellor to help deal with the emotions you’re feeling. They can also help you create coping mechanisms.
We offer a free counselling service that might help.
Create routines
To help feel like you still have a level of independence, you can create daily routines. These will make sure you’re doing what you can each day. They might help you recognise some of the independence you still have.
Set realistic goals
Break down tasks into smaller, manageable steps and do what you can. Remember to celebrate your achievements – even the small ones.Â
Let your healthcare team know what you want
Let your healthcare providers know your needs and discuss the treatment options that can help maintain your independence as much as possible.Â
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