Family caregiving experiences with hospice lung cancer patients compared to other cancer types. Issue 2 (4th March 2023)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Oliver, Debra Parker; Demiris, George; Benson, Jacquelyn; White, Patrick; Wallace, Audrey; Pitzer, Kyle; Washington, Karla
• Is Part Of: Journal of psychosocial oncology. Volume 41:Issue 2(2023)
• Page Start: 210
• Page End: 225
• Publication Date: 2023-03-04
• Subjects: behavioral health -- cancer type -- caregiving -- family -- lung -- lung cancer -- palliative care; Cancer -- Psychological aspects -- Periodicals; Cancer -- Social aspects -- Periodicals; 362.196994
• DOI: 10.1080/07347332.2022.2101907
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0734-7332

Abstract

Abstract: Background: Family caregivers of cancer patients are very involved in communication with healthcare teams; however, little is known about their experiences. Limited information is known about how the type of cancer patients have impact caregiving experiences. Objectives: This study seeks to compare the caregiving experience of caregivers of hospice lung cancer patients with hospice caregivers of patients with all other cancer types. Method: This study is based on a secondary analysis of data generated from a parent study evaluating a behavioral intervention with caregivers of hospice cancer patients. Results: When comparing caregiving experiences by patient diagnosis, significant differences were found in caregivers of hospice lung cancer demographics and experiences with caregiver-centered communication. Specifically, caregivers of lung cancer patients have significantly more trouble with exchange of information, fostering relationships, and decision making with their hospice team. Conclusion: More research is needed to understand the impact of lung cancer on caregiver centered communication and the necessary interventions required to address these issues.