Memory Care Assisted Living | Blood Cancer Awareness Month

September is Blood Cancer Awareness Month in the United States, a time dedicated to supporting patients, honoring survivors, and advancing research. For individuals with memory challenges, this observance carries added weight since health concerns may not always be noticed or communicated clearly. Families and caregivers are reminded of their essential role in fostering attentiveness and support within memory care assisted living.

Understanding Blood Cancers & Symptoms

Blood cancer develops when the body produces abnormal blood cells that interfere with the function of healthy cells. These diseases often begin in the bone marrow, where blood cells are formed, and can affect how oxygen is carried, how infections are fought, and how bleeding is controlled. The primary types are leukemia, lymphoma, and myeloma, each of which disrupts blood function in distinct ways.

Below are some of the common signs and symptoms linked to blood cancer:

Fatigue
Shortness of breath
Swollen lymph nodes
Frequent infections
Bone pain
Night sweats
Enlarged liver or spleen
Joint pain
Persistent fever
Unexplained weight loss
Unusual bruising or bleeding

For residents in memory care assisted living, these symptoms may not always be clearly reported, making close observation by caregivers vital in detecting potential concerns. Therefore, this reality underscores the need for vigilance and proactive healthcare in supporting older adults at risk of serious illness.

Challenges in Detection for Memory Care Residents

As if living with blood cancer were not already challenging, the task of detecting or diagnosing it becomes far more complicated for individuals residing in memory care assisted living communities. Many residents are already coping with cognitive decline, which can blur the lines between regular memory-related changes and signs of a serious illness. Subtle health issues that might otherwise raise concern can go unnoticed or misunderstood, leading to delays in evaluation and treatment.

Here are some of the unique challenges in detection for memory care residents:

Difficulty communicating new or unusual symptoms
Misattributing changes to dementia rather than illness
Limited ability to describe pain or discomfort
Short medical visits that miss subtle warning signs
Family or staff overlooking gradual health changes

These challenges underscore the reality that detection depends heavily on observation, patience, and consistent monitoring from caregivers and healthcare providers. So, without heightened awareness, opportunities for timely intervention may be lost, making vigilance an essential part of resident care.

Community Activities for Awareness

Awareness months lose their impact when the surrounding community is not engaged. For Blood Cancer Awareness Month, participation from facility staff, relatives, and friends helps make the observance meaningful for residents. Creating opportunities to connect, learn, and support one another ensures that the focus goes beyond recognition and becomes a source of comfort and education.

Here are some suggested community activities for awareness:

Wearing and displaying awareness ribbons
Hosting educational talks for staff and families
Organizing family nights with themed activities
Inviting local health professionals for Q&A sessions
Setting up art projects that highlight hope and resilience
Encouraging residents to share personal stories with caregiver assistance
Holding a remembrance ceremony for those affected by blood cancer

When thoughtfully planned, these activities can strengthen bonds, foster understanding, and cultivate a supportive culture within assisted living communities during Awareness Month.

Are you in need of senior care in Nebraska? Click here to learn all about Oxbow Living!

Oxbow Living offers Assisted Living & Memory Care out of Nebraska and to the Surrounding Cities: Ashland, South Bend, Greenwood, Murdock, Elmwood, Ithaca, Mead