If colon cancer is hereditary, your loved one developing it may worry you. Lifestyle changes can reduce some risk factors, even though others, like family history, cannot be altered.

Having one or more risk factors does not mean your loved one will develop colon cancer. The main symptoms of colon cancer will also be given, so that a doctor can check them. Many symptoms of colon cancer are not visible until the disease is advanced. So preventive screening is the best way to detect abnormalities early.

Colon Cancer Risk Factors:

Being overweight

Your loved one can work with his physician to find the healthiest way to reduce his weight.

Sedatariness

If your loved one’s idea of exercise is to walk to the kitchen to get a snack, it’s time to help them get more active. Undoubtedly, having a senior home care provider for walks or even overseeing some in-home exercises is a great place to start.

High-fat Diet

Certain diets have been shown to increase the risk of colon cancer. A diet heavy in processed meats or red meat may increase the risk. When shopping with his senior home care provider, slowly have your parent substitute lean chicken or fish for his proteins.

Smoking and Alcohol

Both of these habits can increase the risk of colon cancer. Both can be very hard to quit. A support team and loved ones can help prevent unhealthy habits from causing colon cancer.

Symptoms of Colon Cancer:

• A change in bowel movements. Your loved one may become constipated, have diarrhea, or notice a narrowing of his bowel movements. This symptom usually does not go away in a few days.
• Rectal bleeding or blood in the stool. Bright red blood that comes from the rectum might indicate colon cancer. His stool may look dark brown or black if it has blood in it.
• A sudden loss of weight. If your senior home care provider or yourself has noticed a drop in weight for your loved one, it might be because his body is trying to battle colon cancer.
• Abdominal cramping and pain. Pain that doesn’t seem to have a cause or won’t stop could be a symptom of cancer and should be checked out.
• Weakness and fatigue. If your loved one has lost his energy and is often exhausted, there might be something else going on in his body. Although everyone can get tired and be fatigued, this will not be relieved by extra sleep or an extra little nap.

Make an appointment with his physician if any of these symptoms occur, especially if he is also at high risk for colon cancer.

If you or an aging loved one is considering Senior Home Care in Bethel, CT, please contact the caring staff at Elderly Caregivers LLC. today. (203) 628-7438

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Bernadette Applegreen

Owner at Elderly Caregivers, LLC.

Bernadette Applegreen, began her career in South Africa where she trained in nursing and began caring for the elderly right out of high school. When she came to United States in 1988, she was recertified as a licensed practical nurse and continued her work. Her 34 years of experience includes work in nursing homes, hospitals and patient’s private homes. Bernadette’s dedication and deep concern for her patients led to the creation of Elderly Caregivers. She saw how important it was for the aging population to live in their own homes for as long as possible. They functioned better, were happier and more assured in a familiar environment. In addition, Bernadette saw that home care could be less expensive than the nursing home option. Elderly Caregivers has been taking care of Seniors with an array of different diagnoses and needs. They are treated as individuals and are provided an individual care plan. It is encouraged that clients and family members participate in the process.

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