Every year as the seasons begin to change across the country, pink ribbons tied on trees and adorning NFL players’ jerseys signal October as National Breast Cancer Awareness month. This heightened awareness, kicked off in 1985 by a collaboration between the American Cancer Society and the pharmaceutical division of Imperial Chemical Industries, has led to an exponential growth in awareness, fundraising, and the importance of early detection through regular mammograms over the last four decades, in addition to increased support for survivors and those battling the deadly disease that is estimated to effect 316,950 women in the United States this year. While much of the focus on the outreach during this important month is on the effect it has on younger women fighting the disease, the average age of those diagnosed is 62, making it an incredibly pertinent issue to seniors, especially considering that
At Senior Living Specialists of California, our motto is that life is so much more than simply where you live, and it’s important to us to give the best counsel possible to families with older loved ones everywhere to live their best, healthiest lives possible well into their golden years. While we’re not physicians ourselves and do not give medical advice, we have compiled some helpful resources and tips to help keep you aware of the signs and progression of breast cancer.
Early Detection Is Key
As with any illness, being ahead of the curve and detecting any changes, big or small, that could be symptoms of breast cancer is of paramount importance in fighting breast cancer. Keeping regular, annual appointments with your primary care physician and administering self-examinations regularly drastically increases the success rate in treating breast cancer, and regular mammograms can help find breast cancer sometimes years ahead of physical symptoms showing, which is when treatment is shown to be the most effective.
On top of regular examinations, keep an eye out for any changes in your body that could be symptoms of breast cancer, including:
Again, your best resource for both peace-of-mind and the meaning behind any significant changes you notice is keeping in regular contact with your primary care physician, and they can always recommend the best course of action.
Helpful Resources
Thankfully, due in large part to the increase of awareness over the last four decades, there are a litany of resources available to seniors in Los Angeles and Southern California that are facing the daunting battle with breast cancer, as well as nationally. From emotional support to those currently battling breast cancer or for their families to medical resources for those that have financial difficulty, there are a litany of organizations that are here for you and your family. Please contact Senior Living Specialists of California for help finding the resources specific to you or your loved ones needs.
National Organizations
Southern California & State-Specific Resources
Financial, Legal, and Practical Assistance
As our own family members have had to battle and thankfully overcome breast cancer, we understand how overwhelming and emotionally taxing fighting any kind of cancer can be, and we’re here for you and your family. Whatever your family needs, we’re here for you. Please contact Senior Living Specialists of California today if there is anything we can do to help you or your aging loved one along your senior living journey.
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