Coping with your illness

It’s never easy to tell someone you love that you have a life-limiting illness, but you might find these tips useful.

It’s important to treat ourselves with the same kindness and care that we would show a much loved friend or family member.

The changes our bodies go through due to illness and treatment can make us feel like we’re not ourselves.

You can still have an enjoyable, meaningful life when you have dementia, and you don’t have to stop doing all the things you love.

Dementia describes the side effects of damage to the brain from a disease. Alzheimer’s is one of those diseases.

Small changes can make a big difference when you have dementia. For example, you may need to reduce trip hazards.

If you keep coughing up phlegm or sputum, you have a ‘productive cough’. Drinking water and learning breathing techniques can help.

A dry cough does not produce phlegm or sputum. Drinking plenty of water can help, and you may want to avoiding lying on your back.

Are you struggling to get to sleep, or waking frequently during the night? Small changes, like avoiding screens before bed, might help.

Feeling stressed or anxious and looking for something to relieve the tension? Watch this video from Hospiscare Complementary Therapist, Helen, to discover some techniques that might help.

Whether you're a staff member, volunteer, patient or a member of the public, these videos are designed to help you take a moment to consider your own wellbeing. Have a browse below to find a session to suit you.