Keeping your care team in the loop

Effective communication is key to managing your health. Discover how to build strong relationships with your care team and ensure they have all the information needed to support you best.

The power of honest communication

The most important tip for speaking with your care team is to include everyone. Keep every member updated on any changes, no matter how small they seem. Most importantly, always be honest with them. Your openness allows them to provide the best possible care tailored to your unique needs.

Addressing common communication challenges

Many times, people think the littlest things do not have to be reported to their care team. However, you would be surprised how important these "little things" actually are. Your care team needs a complete picture of your health and experiences to make educated and effective decisions regarding your treatment and well-being. Don't hesitate to share everything.

Communication Tips for Couples

  • Make your relationship a priority. Schedule a date night or couple time every week. Regular time together builds a positive foundation for your relationship.
  • Be an active listener. Give your partner your full attention. Listening is one of the most important parts of communication.
  • Practice good listening habits. Maintain eye contact, let your partner finish speaking before you respond, and ask for clarification when needed. For example: “So what I hear you saying is…”
  • Use “I” statements. Instead of focusing on what your partner did or didn’t do, express how you feel. For example: “I feel appreciated when you help me bring in the groceries. Thank you.”
  • Practice every day. Good communication takes daily effort. Pay attention to body language and eye contact, and be patient as you grow together.
  • Keep balance in your relationship. Set boundaries, spend time together that doesn’t involve caregiving, and ask for outside help when needed.