Cali is dying.

 

My name is Cali. I am 85 years old and was diagnosed with breast cancer several years ago. Unfortunately, cancer has spread into other organs and to my bones. My life has slowed down, and I’m not able to physically do the things I did before my illness, although I still do what I can, when I can. I’ve been experiencing what my doctors refer to as “cancer-related fatigue.” It has been taking a toll on my energy and affects my ability to carry out my day. I am not able to live independently any longer, and while I am happy to be living in a supportive residence, this final move has made it clear to me that I don’t have much time left.

Cali needs an OT.

END-OF-LIFE care aims to relieve the distress associated with death and improve the quality of life for both those diagnosed with advanced or terminal illness and their loved ones. End-of-life care is appropriate for individuals of any age and/or their families living with or at risk of developing a life-threatening illness. Statistics Canada estimates that more than 283,0001 deaths occur each year. It has been proposed that the death of one person can affect the well-being of five other people; meaning that every year death and dying can potentially affect over 1.4 million Canadians.

The occupational therapist helped Cali to:

  • Manage her fatigue symptoms to complete her morning routine and get dressed for receiving visitors at her room. Learn to preserve her energy for priority visits with family, friends, therapists, and hospice volunteers. Plan to socialize with the other residents, but only if rested.

  • Set time aside to reflect on many good memories of her best days travelling, dancing, gardening, and playing with her dogs. Call friends and family.

  • Continue with activities that matter most to her, such as writing holiday cards for her grandchildren and participating in the residence’s activity programs, like chair yoga.

  • Choose bed pillows and a mattress topper that improve her comfort while sitting or lying in bed. The bone cancer makes some surfaces uncomfortable.

  • Find audiobooks from Cali’s favourite authors to listen to when resting and lying down. Cali takes more rests during the day but doesn’t always want to sleep.

Because of occupational therapy, I can come to terms with my illness.

1 Statistics Canada (2020). "Table 13-10-0710-01 Deaths and mortality rates, by age group." Retrieved September 24, 2020, from https://www150.statcan.gc.ca/t1/tbl1/en/tv.action?pid=1310071001.

The Canadian Association of Occupational Therapists (CAOT) provides a searchable national directory of occupational therapists for all Canadians to find the occupational therapy services they need.

Occupational therapy. Making the everyday possible.