Daily life with pancreatic cancer

Getting the right support can help you cope with pancreatic cancer, and continue with your daily life as much as possible. Getting practical things organised may help reduce your worry or stress.

If you have family or friends who want to help, ask for specific things. For example, they could update other friends and family about recent hospital visits or test results, help with driving you to appointments or help around the house.

Where can I get financial advice and support?

Can I get advice if I want to carry on working?

Can I get help with hospital parking or travel to hospital?

What physical activity would be helpful for me?

Would complementary therapies help with my symptoms or side effects?

A woman in a black blazer and white shirt is engaged in conversation with another person in a blue top, seated in a room with brochures on shelves.

Work and money

Cancer can have an impact on your finances, but there is support and advice available. You may be able to claim benefits.

Senior citizen at doctor's office with caring medical professional.

Can I get help with transport and travel costs?

There is some support available with travel costs for people with cancer.

Home caregiver helping a senior woman standing in the bedroom

Can I get help with equipment or home adaptations?

An occupational therapist or physiotherapist can give advice on equipment to help you stay independent.

Is it safe to exercise with pancreatic cancer?

Gentle physical activity can help to maintain or improve your strength and fitness. It may also help you feel better, improve fatigue and boost your mood.

Mature healthcare worker talking with female patient at care home

Are complementary therapies helpful?

Some people find that complementary therapies such as acupuncture, massage or relaxation therapies help them deal with symptoms and side effects.

Couple affected by pancreatic cancer hugging one another.

Information for families and friends

Supporting someone with pancreatic cancer can be hard. Our information can help you understand what to expect and how you can help.

Published March 2026

To be reviewed March 2029

Daily life with pancreatic cancer

This information explains how to get support with practical things like work, money and transport. There is also information about physical activity and complementary therapies which might help with symptoms and side effects.