Loss of mobility. How can I make things easier for my father

Hi all,

My father was diagnosed with terminal cancer a year ago and was told he had a year to live.  The last couple of weeks he's been in hospice care but was really keen to get home.

We got him home today and it was great to see him in the house, however, bed time was a reality check.

He had terrible breathlessness and a lack of power in his legs meaning getting from the living room, up the stairs and to the bed was a traumatic experience.

We have a toilet down stairs but no shower.  My feelings just now are moving his bed downstairs and finding some way of getting him washed in the kitchen?

Would be keen to hear any ideas, suggestions from people who've been through similar?

I'm a realist and have accepted that he's going to die etc, just want to find the easiest way of making his last time with us as drama free as possible so he can enjoy what he can.

  • Hi Ryanmc18 and welcome to the Cancer Chat community.

    I'm sorry to hear your father has terminal cancer although it's great he's finally been able to return home after being at the hospice.

    Many of our members have been in this situation so I'm sure some of them will be along soon to offer their support and advice but if you feel you may need some practical help looking after your father, it may be worth getting in touch with Marie Curie. You can find out about other support that may be available at home for you and your father on our website.

    It can be very tough taking on the challenges that come with caring for someone in the latter stages of a cancer diagnosis so it's really important to take some time for yourself. I know this may be tricky but I hope this information we have on caring for the carer will help. 

    Our friendly and insightful team of cancer nurses are available on 0808 800 4040, Monday - Friday between 9a.m - 5p.m if you'd like to discuss your father's situation with them as well.

    I hope this helps and you're able to spend some quality time with your father.

    Kind regards,

    Steph, Cancer Chat Moderator