When a loved one is undergoing cancer treatment, showing them love and support becomes more crucial than ever. The journey through cancer can be physically exhausting and emotionally overwhelming, and knowing that they are surrounded by caring individuals can make a big difference. One effective way to ensure your love and support resonate is by tailoring your actions to align with their love language.
The concept of love languages, introduced by Dr. Gary Chapman, suggests that people express and experience love in different ways. By understanding and utilizing these love languages, you can better communicate your care and affection in a manner that is most meaningful to your loved one.
In this article, we will explore five ways to keep in touch with a loved one during their cancer treatment, each aligned with one of the five love languages. By considering these different approaches, you can offer comprehensive support that speaks directly to their heart, providing comfort and strength during a challenging time.
Table of Contents
Offering Gifts
For those whose primary love language is receiving gifts, the act of giving and receiving presents holds profound emotional significance. It’s not about the monetary value but the thoughtfulness and care behind the gesture. When a loved one is undergoing cancer treatment, thoughtful gifts can serve as tangible reminders of your love and support, providing comfort and joy during difficult times.
If this is the way you want to show you care, send a personalized get well care package tailored to your loved one’s preferences and needs. Include items that can provide comfort and distraction. Cozy blankets, soft socks, favorite snacks, and books or puzzles can be great options. Adding personal touches, like handwritten notes or photos, can make the package even more special.
Consider gifts that offer inspiration and encouragement. Books with uplifting messages, journals for writing thoughts and feelings, or items with motivational quotes can provide a sense of hope and positivity. A custom-made piece of jewelry with an encouraging message or symbol can be a cherished keepsake.
Words of Affirmation
For those who value words of affirmation, verbal expressions of love and encouragement can be incredibly powerful. During cancer treatment, hearing supportive and positive words can provide a significant emotional boost. With a few kind words, you can help maintain their spirits and sense of hope. There are many ways to use words of affirmation to stay connected with your loved one.
Make it a habit to check in with your loved one regularly. A simple phone call, text message, or email expressing your thoughts and feelings can make a big difference. Let them know you are thinking about them and that they are not alone in their journey. Keep in mind that while a call can be a kind gesture, it can also take a lot of energy. Sometimes your loved one will need to just rest.
Handwritten letters and cards can also be especially meaningful, and written messages can be read and reread whenever a patient is feeling up for it or needs an extra dose of encouragement. There’s just something special about receiving a handwritten letter or card. Write heartfelt messages, sharing your love, admiration, and support. Reflect on positive memories, acknowledge their strength, and let them know you believe they’ll overcome this challenge. Having others believe in you is a powerful thing.
Acts of Service
Whether you’re driving them to appointments, cleaning their house, cooking meals, or watching their kids, acts of service are a powerful way to show your loved one you care. For individuals who appreciate acts of service, actions often speak louder than words. Practical help and thoughtful gestures can alleviate stress and make their daily life a bit easier.
When you’re trying to decide how you can be of service, consider what you can do to reduce the burden on your loved one and ensure that they receive the necessary care without added stress. This could look like coordinating medical appointments, managing medications, or communicating with healthcare providers.
If you enjoy cooking, meal prep can be an especially taxing activity for those undergoing treatment. Cooking nutritious and comforting meals can be a wonderful way to show you care. Consider preparing meals that are easy to digest and align with any dietary restrictions they might have. Freezing individual portions for later use can also be incredibly helpful, but make sure you label everything clearly and include heating instructions.
Quality Time
For those who value quality time, being present and engaged can be one of the most profound ways to show care and support. During cancer treatment, spending meaningful time together can provide emotional strength, create cherished memories, and reinforce the bond you share. The key is that word — engaged. You don’t want to sit by their bedside scrolling through your phone. That can unfortunately lead to feelings of isolation and abandonment. Instead, be present, and focus on them.
You could participate in activities that your loved one enjoys and can comfortably do. This could include watching their favorite movies or TV shows, working on puzzles, playing board games, reading together, or trying arts and crafts. If your loved one feels up to it, plan gentle and relaxing outings. This could be a walk in the park, a visit to a botanical garden, or a scenic drive. Fresh air and a change of scenery can be refreshing, and sharing these moments can create a sense of normalcy and joy.
Take the time to have deep and meaningful conversations too — whether on an outing or by their bedside. Listen actively, share your thoughts and feelings, and be open to discussing anything they want to talk about. Your genuine interest and attention can make them feel valued and understood.
Physical Touch
If you’re not a touchy-feely person, physical touch might make you uncomfortable, but it is a powerful way to comfort and reassure other people. During cancer treatment, gentle and caring touch can provide emotional solace and a sense of closeness. Whether it’s hugs, cuddles, or holding hands, there are many ways to use physical touch to show your support and love.
Simple yet powerful, hugs and cuddles can convey a deep sense of love and security. A warm embrace can offer comfort, reduce stress, and help your loved one feel connected. Studies show hugs also provide health benefits. In addition to reducing fear, stress, and pain, hugs are suspected to support immune and cardiovascular health.
If your loved one is comfortable with it, gentle massages can also help relieve tension and provide relaxation. Focus on areas that are not affected by treatment or pain. A soothing hand or foot massage can be particularly comforting and can help alleviate stress and discomfort.
Respect Their Boundaries
No matter what their love language is, It’s important to be sensitive to your loved one’s boundaries and comfort levels, especially during treatment when they might be experiencing physical discomfort. Always ask for consent before initiating physical contact and be attentive to their cues. Same goes for taking over chores in their home or visiting them in the hospital. These caring gestures can help your loved one feel valued and supported during their treatment, but make sure the timing is right and you’re doing something they’d appreciate.