The caregiver experiences a mirror version of these fears, and would be wise to admit them as well. A frank discussion of the emotional aspects can relieve a lot of tension and guilt on both sides. This is the double-bind which can be so emotionally dangerous. Anger suppressed leads to resentment or depression, neither of which are healthy additions to the situation. I always find I work it out somehow, myself, after I vent a little or a lot.
Education can relieve a great deal of stress for all concerned.
The patient and the caregiver should make sure they are partners in this aspect of their lives. Patients should keep caregivers up to date on the information they receive from doctors or from their own research. Caregivers should do the same. With the vast amount of information available, it's easy to overload or lose perspective. Two people sharing the load make it less likely that one is carrying the entire emotional or practical burden.