Informal Caregivers of Cancer Patients: Perceptions About Preparedness and Support During Hospice Care |
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| Authors: | John G. Cagle Pamela J. Kovacs |
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| Affiliation: | 1. Cecil G. Sheps Center for Health Services Research , University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill , Chapel Hill , North Carolina , USA cagle@schsr.unc.edu;3. School of Social Work , Virginia Commonwealth University , Richmond , Virginia , USA |
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| Abstract: | This study examined the perceptions of preparedness and support of informal caregivers of hospice oncology patients. Respondents included coresiding, proximate, and long-distance caregivers. Thematic analysis was used to analyze the qualitative data from 2 caregiver surveys, one administered prior to the care recipient's death and another completed 3 months postdeath. Respondents (N = 69) interpreted preparedness broadly and identified multiple sources of support including hospice personnel, family, friends, neighbors, and spiritual beliefs. Additionally, informational support, such as education, information, and enhanced communication were considered essential for preparing and supporting caregivers. Implications for social work research and practice are provided. |
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| Keywords: | death dying bereavement family caregiving perceptions |
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