top of page
  • Facebook
  • Twitter
  • Instagram
Search

10 Signs a Cancer Patient May Need In-Home PCA Support

A cancer diagnosis affects every part of a person’s life, physically, mentally, and emotionally. As treatment progresses, many patients begin to struggle with everyday tasks that were once simple. This is especially true during chemotherapy, radiation, and post-surgical recovery.


Families often wonder:

“How do we know when it’s time to get help?”

Recognizing the early signs that a cancer patient may benefit from PCA (Personal Care Assistant) support can prevent accidents, reduce stress, and improve the patient’s quality of life. At Devoted Home Care, LLC, our PCAs provide compassionate, non-medical care for cancer patients throughout Georgia, helping them remain safe, comfortable, and independent at home.


ree

HERE ARE THE TOP 10 SIGNS IT MAY BE TIME TO CONSIDER PCA SUPPORT.

1. Increasing Fatigue and Weakness

Fatigue is the most common side effect of cancer and its treatments. It can appear suddenly and last for days or weeks.

If a patient is:

  • Sleeping more than usual

  • Unable to perform tasks they once could

  • Too tired to get out of bed or shower…it’s a strong sign that PCA help may be needed.

PCAs assist with ADLs (Activities of Daily Living) so the patient can conserve energy for healing.


2. Trouble Completing Activities of Daily Living (ADLs)

ADLs include:

  • Bathing

  • Dressing

  • Grooming

  • Eating

  • Mobility

  • Toileting

Cancer treatments often make these tasks physically demanding or unsafe. A PCA provides gentle, hands-on support to ensure safety and dignity.


3. Reduced Appetite or Weight Loss

Cancer and chemotherapy can dramatically affect appetite and taste. A PCA supports nutrition by:

  • Preparing small, nutrient-dense meals

  • Offering hydration reminders

  • Encouraging light, frequent snacks

  • Assisting with feeding if necessary

Good nutrition is essential for strength, treatment tolerance, and healing.


4. Difficulty Managing Household Tasks

If the patient struggles with:

  • Cleaning

  • Laundry

  • Dishes

  • Trash

  • Organizing medications

  • Preparing meals

…it may be time to bring in help.

PCAs assist with homemaker tasks to maintain a clean and safe living environment.


5. Increased Risk of Falls

Cancer patients face fall risks due to:

  • Dizziness

  • Neuropathy

  • Weakness

  • Medication side effects

  • Surgical recovery

Falls can be severe and even life-threatening.

PCA support includes:

  • Mobility assistance

  • Proper transferring

  • Clear home pathways

  • Safe positioning

This reduces the risk of accidents.


6. Changes in Mobility

Signs of declining mobility include:

  • Difficulty standing up

  • Slower walking

  • Trouble climbing stairs

  • Needing to hold onto furniture

  • Using walls for balance

A PCA helps maintain safety while promoting independence.


7. Emotional or Social Withdrawal

Cancer patients may experience:

  • Sadness

  • Anxiety

  • Depression

  • Isolation

  • Fear of being a burden

A PCA provides companionship, emotional support, and reassurance—often improving mood and motivation.


8. Difficulty Keeping Up With Medical Routines

Treatment can be overwhelming. Patients may forget:

  • Medication times

  • Appointment schedules

  • Hydration and meal routines

  • Instructions from healthcare providers

PCAs help with reminders, organization, and consistent routines (non-medical).


9. Family Caregiver Burnout

Caregiving is emotionally and physically exhausting. Signs of burnout include:

  • Irritability

  • Exhaustion

  • Anxiety

  • Feeling overwhelmed

  • No personal time

PCA support gives families relief, balance, and peace of mind.


10. Concerns About Safety at Home

Home safety issues can arise when a patient:

  • Lives alone

  • Has limited mobility

  • Forgets essential tasks

  • Struggles with hygiene

  • Experiences confusion or disorientation

PCAs monitor safety, supervise activities, and provide reliable daily support.


HOW PCA SUPPORT HELPS CANCER PATIENTS

PCAs improve quality of life by assisting with:

  • Personal hygiene and grooming

  • Bathing and dressing

  • Meal preparation and feeding

  • Mobility and transfers

  • Medication reminders

  • Light housekeeping

  • Transportation

  • Companionship

This support reduces stress, enhances safety, and helps patients maintain independence.


WHY FAMILIES CHOOSE DEVOTED HOME CARE, LLC

As a Georgia-licensed Private Home Care Provider (PHCP), Devoted Home Care, LLC offers:

  • Experienced PCAs trained in oncology-sensitive care

  • Personalized care plans

  • Flexible scheduling (from 4 hours to 24-hour care)

  • Reliable communication

  • Dignified, compassionate support

  • PHCP Rule 111-8-65 compliance

We are dedicated to supporting cancer patients and their families with professionalism and heart.


FINAL THOUGHTS

If you recognize any of these signs in a loved one, PCA support may greatly improve their safety, comfort, and overall well-being. You don’t have to navigate this journey alone—professional care can make all the difference.


CONTACT US

ree

Devoted Home Care, LLC

📍 1755 The Exchange SE

       Atlanta, GA 30339

📞 (404) 333-86913


Devoted Home Care, LLC — Compassionate care. Professional support. Dignity in every step.

Comments

bottom of page