Family caregiving experiences with hospice lung cancer patients compared to other cancer types

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.