Cancer has become the leading cause of death in Australia, particularly affecting people over the age of 65. For older Australians and their families, a cancer diagnosis is not only emotionally devastating but also presents complex challenges when it comes to daily care, health management, and aged care planning.
The Intersection of Ageing and Cancer in Australia
Cancer is often referred to as a disease of age. While it can affect people of all ages, statistics show a significantly higher prevalence among Australians aged 65 and over. Ageing naturally brings changes in the immune system, healing capacity, and resilience—all of which can complicate cancer diagnosis and treatment.
Older Australians with cancer are also more likely to be living with other chronic health conditions, such as diabetes, arthritis, or cardiovascular disease. These comorbidities can complicate treatment protocols and contribute to poorer outcomes. In such situations, family members or caregivers are often called upon to manage a wide range of responsibilities including coordinating appointments, assisting with personal care, and making crucial health decisions.
This is where SSCA’s free care finding service becomes invaluable. With over 25 years of experience in the aged care sector, SSCA provides clear, compassionate, and personalised advice to match older Australians living with cancer to the most suitable home care providers or aged care homes in Melbourne.
Challenges Faced by Carers of Elderly People with Cancer
Caring for an older person with cancer can be uniquely challenging. In addition to the physical and emotional impact of the disease, carers often have to manage:
Multiple medications and side effects
Transportation to frequent medical appointments
Mobility and personal hygiene support
Mental health and emotional wellbeing
Financial planning and eligibility for government-funded care
The presence of cognitive impairments such as dementia or mild memory loss can further complicate caregiving. Some carers are themselves elderly or have their own health concerns. These overlapping issues create a situation where professional help is not just beneficial, but often essential.
Importance of Individualised Cancer Care Planning
For elderly cancer patients, one-size-fits-all solutions do not work. Decisions regarding cancer treatment must take into account the patient’s age, overall health, comorbidities, cognitive function, social support network, and quality of life preferences.
This is why communication between the patient, family, carers, and medical professionals is vital. Whenever possible, the older person should be included in conversations about their own care. In cases where cognitive capacity is diminished, legal tools such as Enduring Power of Attorney or advance care directives should guide decision-making.
Emotional and Mental Health Support
Coping with cancer is not just a physical battle. For both the person with cancer and their loved ones, emotional resilience is key. Feelings of fear, frustration, grief, and helplessness are common.
Older adults may experience anxiety about losing independence, becoming a burden, or fac ing the end of life. Carers may feel overwhelmed and burned out. Access to mental health support, counselling, and community resources becomes essential.
SSCA connects families with providers that incorporate emotional and mental health support into their care services.
Planning for Palliative and End-of-Life Care
When cancer is diagnosed at a late stage or becomes terminal, palliative care becomes a critical component of support. It focuses on comfort, dignity, and quality of life rather than curative treatment.
SSCA’s care finding service can help you identify aged care providers who specialise in palliative care. These providers offer services such as pain relief, spiritual support, personal care, and family education.
Early planning for end-of-life care ensures the individual’s wishes are respected and reduces stress on family members. SSCA assists with these difficult transitions, ensuring older Australians receive compassionate care and support until the end.
Why Choose SSCA’s Free Care Finding Service?
At SSCA, we are not affiliated with any single provider. Our care finding service is independent, obligation-free, and 100% focused on your needs. We know the Melbourne aged care landscape, and our recommendations are based on years of experience, consumer feedback, and provider performance.
Here’s what you can expect:
Free consultation and care planning
Clear explanations of your options
A shortlist of compatible aged care providers in Melbourne
Ongoing support during provider onboarding
Whether you’re just beginning the journey or urgently need support for a loved one with cancer, SSCA is here to help.
Conclusion: Empowering Families Through Trusted Support
Caring for an elderly person with cancer is a profound responsibility, filled with both challenges and moments of deep connection. The aged care journey does not have to be taken alone. With the right guidance, families can make informed decisions and access care that upholds dignity, comfort, and respect.
SSCA’s free care finding service is your trusted ally in navigating aged care for older Australians with cancer. If you need support, contact us today and let us help you find the right care in Melbourne.
Contact SSCA
Call us: (03) 9123 4560
Get started: Complete our care finding enquiry form