Caring for Someone with Kidney Cancer

What to expect on your caregiver journey

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• Kidney cancer, also called renal cancer, is a disease where abnormal cells grow in the kidneys. It affects health, energy, emotions, and daily life.
• People with this disease often require assistance with daily tasks during treatment and appreciate the comfort and encouragement you can offer.
• Kidney cancer caregiver tasks involve navigating the medical system, dealing with insurance, handling finances, and taking care of legal matters.
• You have to put effort into taking care of yourself and asking for help when you need it, so that you can stay strong for your loved ones.
• In addition to using these kidney cancer caregiver tips, you may want to consider joining support groups that can provide guidance, understanding, and resources along the way.

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Learn more about possible links between kidney cancer and PFAS exposure

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Explore PFAS Risks

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How to support someone with kidney (renal) cancer

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There are many ways of helping someone with kidney cancer. Beyond dealing with medical issues, you may need to assist with practical daily tasks. You may need to help communicate with your loved one’s healthcare team, as well as research information and options for treatment and support. Then there is the emotional side. You can help your loved one manage their feelings, making sure they know they are not alone, being a good listener, and helping them cope with symptoms, side effects, and lifestyle changes. Part of how to support a loved one with kidney cancer is taking care of yourself, too, so that you can be a dependable source of help.

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Helping with daily activities

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People dealing with this disease may not be able to take care of everyday tasks like they used to. You can provide practical kidney cancer support by handling regular household chores. Your loved one won’t have to stress so much, and they can put their energy into resting and recovering. While needs may shift through treatment stages, some kidney cancer caregiver tips include: 

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• Plan nutritious meals that are easy to keep down. Shop for ingredients and prepare single servings that you can simply reheat.
• Take over household chores. Doing the laundry, cleaning, and yardwork keeps your loved one’s home clean, orderly, and restful.
• Run errands. You can make a meaningful difference simply by doing things like going grocery shopping, picking up medicines at the drug store, mailing packages, walking the dog, and so on.
• Help with childcare. Pick up kids at school, make sure they get to their activities, and take them shopping for school necessities. 

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Managing medications and appointments

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Managing intense and complex treatments is a job in itself for a kidney cancer caregiver. You can help tremendously by making sure your loved one follows treatment schedules correctly. Keep track of important information so it isn’t missed. Help stay organized. You’ll keep their care on track with a lot less stress.

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• Use a pill organizer and consider an app that helps you track doses, timing, and the need to get refills.
• Use your phone to set reminders for when medication is to be taken and when medical appointments are scheduled.
• Take notes. Having a notebook around to record instructions, document test results, and remember appointments helps. You can also use the notebook to record reactions to medications and how your loved one’s condition changes day by day.
• Keeping a central calendar can help you keep track of medical visits, lab tests, and follow-up calls all in one place. If you have others helping you with caregiving, it can help you all stay coordinated.

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Encouraging healthy habits

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Fighting kidney cancer will take all your loved one’s strength and energy. If you can support healthy habits, which may help them feel better overall, depending on individual medical guidance. Changes around diet, sleep, activity, and ending bad habits like smoking and drinking can help them endure treatments better and recover faster. Here are some kidney cancer caregiver tips for supporting health habits.

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• Encourage an end to smoking and drinking. Remove triggers and share resources for quitting.
• Make healthy meals consistent with medical guidance from their healthcare team and that provide extra nourishment. Fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains are good. Limit overly processed foods when advised by a healthcare professional.
• Hydrate adequately. Follow the doctor’s recommendations for proper hydration to support kidney function and overall health.

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Providing hope and support

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The emotional side of caring for someone with kidney cancer is just as important as dealing with medical issues. Being a source of comfort, understanding, and encouragement can help your loved one feel less alone and more optimistic. It may seem a small thing, but compassion is a boost to emotional well-being, and that can affect how a person responds to treatment.

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• Listen and give your full attention to your loved one and let them share their feelings.
• Don’t judge. Instead, let them know it is okay to feel sad, frustrated, or fearful.
• Encourage optimism, and focus on your loved one’s strengths and the progress they are making.
• Do things together that bring smiles and comfort. Watching a favorite show together or getting out for a walk are simple joys that keep spirits up.

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Assisting with paperwork and medical bills

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Chasing down and organizing paperwork and paying medical bills on time is a burden and can feel overwhelming for someone being treated for kidney cancer. People can be so physically and emotionally exhausted that simply filling out insurance forms is more than they can handle. It is important that all these details are taken care of accurately and on time so that care is not delayed. As a kidney cancer caregiver, you can help track and organize financial and legal details, resolving issues before they become bigger problems.

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• Create a file system of folders or a binder for keeping medical bills, insurance forms, receipts, and other important documents organized and easy to find. 
• Read through statements and bills carefully. Errors are common, and you don’t want to get hit with unexpected charges. 
• Schedule time for handling paperwork weekly or twice a month, so it doesn't pile up and become overwhelming. You will also reduce the chance that you will miss something and get a late fee.
• When you have questions about payments and insurance, call the hospital billing department. You can also work with patient advocates who may be able to connect you to financial aid.

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Advocating for their needs

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Speaking up for your loved one and looking out for their interests is an important part of caring for someone with kidney cancer. Your loved one may not feel up to the stress of dealing with many issues. Treatment is exhausting. Ask questions and make sure that their care choices fit with what they want. Stay informed and help your loved one get the best care and support.

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• Learn all you can about kidney cancer, your loved one’s diagnosis, and the treatment options available. That way, you can ask better questions.
• Stay in touch with your loved one’s care team. Keep them updated about symptoms and side effects. Make sure you are clear on all care instructions.
• Take notes during appointments and when you are home with your loved one so that important details are not overlooked.
• Encourage your loved one to speak up and say what matters and what they want. Their voice is important in making care decisions. 

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More ways to help a loved one with kidney cancer

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You don’t have to be the main person helping a loved one to contribute to caring for someone with kidney cancer. You can always step in with a little extra help, sharing companionship, and providing encouragement. Anything you do can help to ease the load on the patient and other caregivers. The small, thoughtful gestures mean more than you might imagine. 

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• Check in regularly. A text, email, or quick call lets your loved one know that they matter.
• Offer help, but be specific. Offer to make a meal, pick up things at the store, or drive your loved one to an appointment.
• Be there with companionship. Showing up for a brief chat or watching television together can be a welcome break from the routine.
• Send positive notes and care packages to let your loved one know you are thinking of them.
• Include your loved one in social activities. Send the invitation, so if their energy level and health are up to it, they can join in. If they can’t attend, they still feel connected. 

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Self-care tips for kidney cancer caregivers

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While helping someone with kidney cancer can be rewarding, it is also tough work, physically and emotionally. It is easy to sacrifice your own needs as you focus on your loved one. Yet, your ability to provide kidney cancer support depends on you staying strong and healthy. You aren’t being selfish when you take time for yourself. You can lower fatigue, anxiety, depression, and sleep problems while improving your immunity, physical, and emotional health with good self-care.

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• Take short breaks throughout the day to do something you enjoy, such as reading, going for a walk, listening to music, or practicing yoga.
• Make an effort to prepare balanced meals to maintain your energy levels.
• Prioritize sleep and take naps whenever possible.
• Stay connected with family and friends, taking time out to spend with them.
• Ask for help. People can give you a break, even for a few hours or just a day, so that you can recharge.
• Schedule time for things you enjoy, like a hobby, a calming bath, or going to a movie.

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Learn more about possible links between kidney cancer and PFAS exposure.

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Explore PFAS Risks

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FAQs

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What's it like living with kidney cancer?

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Life with kidney cancer is tough. You may experience fatigue, changes in appetite, and side effects from the treatment. You will have good days and bad days. Having the support of a kidney cancer caregiver is truly a blessing. They can help you manage your treatments and reactions to them, help you plan and attend appointments, take care of daily tasks, deal with finances and legal issues, and keep your spirits up–plus so much more.

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What resources exist for kidney cancer patients?

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You are not alone in dealing with kidney cancer. The Kidney Cancer Association has a variety of resources online and off. They can provide educational materials, updates on treatments, patient stories, and can connect you to communities and local support groups. You should also work through your care team and hospital to find local groups for in-person help. Many hospitals also have a patient advocate who can connect you to financial assistance, as well as potentially refer you to clinical trials and other resources. The more people you ask, the more help you will find.

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What is the recommended diet for kidney cancer patients?

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Because your kidneys play such an important role in cleansing your system, what you eat matters. You want to stay away from excessive sodium, potassium, seed oils, processed foods, chemicals, excess sugar, and sometimes protein. Specific foods, such as cauliflower, cabbage, bell peppers, chicken, fatty fish, and olive oil, can contribute to overall health. Research what to include in a healthy diet for your kidneys and consult your healthcare team about specifics that depend on your condition and overall health.

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Can I take time off work to help someone with kidney cancer?

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Dealing with kidney cancer or helping someone with kidney cancer is time-consuming and takes energy and attention. Several programs can help you save your job or potentially provide financial support while dealing with cancer.

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• Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA): You may be able to take 12 weeks of unpaid leave every year to take care of a family member without losing your job or health insurance.
• State paid family leave: State programs may provide partial wage replacement while you are caring for someone with kidney cancer.
• Vacation/paid time off: If you have unused vacation or personal days, you may be able to use them while still getting paid.
• Negotiating flexible work: You may be able to work with your employer to get a flexible schedule, reduced hours, or the ability to work remotely so that you can still take care of work while supporting your loved one.

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Can you get disability benefits for kidney cancer?

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You may be eligible for disability benefits depending on your condition and individual circumstances. The Social Security Administration (SSA) Blue Book explains the rules about your stage of kidney cancer, the type of treatments you get, and complications. If you qualify, you can get financial assistance while you are unable to work.

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What to say to comfort someone with kidney cancer?

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People with kidney cancer don’t expect you to fix them, and they don’t want to hear false optimism. Instead, be someone who listens to them and gives empathy and assurance. Let them know how important they are to you and that you are there for them no matter what.

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It is normal and okay to feel scared, angry, frustrated, or tired.

You are not alone. I am always here if you want to talk.

Don't hesitate to ask for help. You don’t have to go through this by yourself.