Physical health, mental health, and life changes among family caregivers of patients with lung cancer

Preliminary effects of a yoga intervention for lung cancer dyads: benefits for care partners

PURPOSE

Lung cancer is a disease with high mortality and morbidity, impacting both the patient and their closest contact, referred to in this paper as their care partner. There is limited evidence on how to support mental health and quality of life (QOL) for patient-care partner dyads during cancer treatment. This pilot study examines yoga as an intervention to improve well-being for the dyad.

METHODS

A single-group, 12-week pilot trial of yoga for patients and their care partners recruited from two hospitals during cancer treatment (N = 23 patient-partner dyads or 46 individuals). Most care partners were spouses (70%), with the remainder being adult children (22%), a sibling (4%), or a friend (4%). Descriptive statistics, Cohen's d effect sizes, and paired t-tests for validated psychosocial measures were calculated at baseline and 12 weeks.

RESULTS

Sixty-five percent of dyads (N = 13) completed the study, with withdrawals mostly due to disease progression. Among care partners, there was a decrease in depression symptomology on the PHQ-8 (p = 0.015, Cohen's d = 0.96) and improvement in QOL on the Caregiver QOL-Cancer scale (p = 0.001, Cohen's d = 0.61). Fifty percent of dyads experienced concordant improvement in depressive symptoms and 77% in QOL.

CONCLUSION

Patient-partner yoga is a promising intervention for improving mental health and QOL for patient-partner dyads among lung cancer survivors. This study demonstrates yoga to be acceptable, feasible, and with high concordance within patient-partner dyads for improvements in QOL. Yoga shows promise for patients and care partners to alleviate the negative psychosocial impacts of lung cancer, though more research is needed to confirm effects.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT03649737, 12/9/2020.

Impact of Residential Segregation on Healthcare Utilization and Perceived Quality of Care Among Informal Caregivers in the United States

This study aimed to investigate the impact of racial residential segregation on healthcare utilization and perceived quality of care among informal caregivers in the US. It further assessed potential variations in the estimated impact across caregivers' race and socioeconomic status. We used data from the Health Information National Trends Survey Data Linkage Project (fielded in 2020) for a sample of 583 self-identified informal caregivers in the US. Fitting a series of regression models with the maximum likelihood estimation, we computed the beta coefficients (β) of interest and their associated Wald 95% confidence limits (CI). Caregivers who resided in areas with higher segregation, compared to those living in lower segregated areas, were less likely to visit a healthcare professional [β =  - 2.08; Wald 95%CI - 2.093, - 2.067] (moderate); [β =  - 2.53; Wald 95%CI - 2.549, - 2.523] (high)]. Further, caregivers residing in moderate [β =  - 0.766; Wald 95%CI - 0.770, - 0.761] and high [β =  - 0.936; Wald 95%CI - 0.941, - 0.932] segregation regions were less likely to perceive a better quality of care compared to those located in low segregation areas. Moreover, as segregation level increased, Black caregivers were less likely to see a health professional, less frequently used healthcare services, and had poorer perceived healthcare quality when compared to Whites. Our findings indicate that higher residential segregation is associated with lower healthcare utilization, such as visiting a healthcare professional, and poorer perceived healthcare quality among informal caregivers. Given the essential role of informal caregivers in the current healthcare system, it is vital to investigate and address challenges associated with access to and quality of essential healthcare services to improve caregivers' health and well-being, specifically for caregivers of minority backgrounds.

Changes in rural caregivers' health behaviors while supporting someone with cancer: A qualitative study

PURPOSE

Caring for someone with cancer has a significant impact on usual routines, including caregivers' ability to maintain their own health and wellbeing. Caregivers living in rural areas face additional challenges in supporting someone with cancer, and little is known about the impact of caregiving on the health behaviors of rural caregivers. Therefore, this study explored how caring for someone with cancer affected rural caregivers' health behaviors.

METHODS

Through semi-structured interviews, 20 rural caregivers described changes in their health behaviors while caring for someone with cancer and the factors underlying these changes. Specific prompts were provided for diet, physical activity, alcohol, smoking, sleep, social connection and leisure, and accessing health care when needed. Interviews were audio-recorded and transcribed verbatim. Content analysis was used to identify changes in health behaviors and the factors underlying these changes. The factors identified were mapped to the socioecological framework, identifying areas for intervention across multiple levels (individual, interpersonal, organizational, community, and policy).

RESULTS

Rural caregivers reported both positive and negative changes to their diet, physical activity, alcohol, and smoking. Sleep, social connection and leisure, and accessing health care were negatively impacted since becoming a caregiver.

CONCLUSIONS

Designing interventions to address rural caregivers' coping strategies, reduce carer burden and fatigue, improve access to cooking and exercise facilities and social support while away from home, reduce the need to travel for treatment, and increase the financial support available could yield widespread benefits for supporting the health and wellbeing of rural caregivers.

A Scoping Review of Group Nutrition Education and Cooking Programs for People Affected by Cancer

BACKGROUND

Group nutrition education and cooking programs for people affected by cancer have the potential to address commonly reported unmet needs for dietary information, as well as provide opportunities for practical and social support.

OBJECTIVE

To report the nutrition-related content, delivery methods, and outcomes measured in group nutrition education and cooking programs for people affected by cancer in the published literature, and describe how these programs were developed, implemented, and evaluated.

METHODS

A scoping review of academic literature is reported using the preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses extension for scoping reviews guidelines. Key terms such as cancer, nutrition education, and cooking were searched across 4 databases (PubMed, Embase, Cumulative Index of Nursing and Allied Health Literature, and Web of Science) on June 1, 2023, for records published over the past 10 years. Records were independently screened by 2 reviewers. Data extracted included program participants, components, nutrition-related content, delivery methods, outcomes measured, and information about how the program was developed, implemented, and evaluated.

RESULTS

Of 2,254 records identified, 41 articles met eligibility criteria, reporting on 37 programs. Most programs were designed for adult cancer survivors (89%) and conducted after primary treatment (81%). Four programs invited caregivers to attend. Almost all programs (97%) included a nutrition education component, and more than half (59%) included cooking activities, with a predominant focus on recommendations and practical skills for healthy eating. Most programs were delivered byregistered dietitians and/or nutritionists (54%) and included group discussions (57%) and active involvement in cooking activities (57%) in program delivery. The participant outcomes that were measured covered dietary, psychosocial, clinical, and anthropometric domains. Many programs were developed with cancer survivors, dietitians or nutritionists, and researchers. No studies reported on sustainability of program implementation or overall costs. Programs were evaluated using data from surveys, focus groups, interviews, and field notes, with articles typically reporting on participation rates, reasons for nonparticipation, program acceptability, aspects of the nutrition-related programs valued by participants, and suggestions for improvement.

CONCLUSIONS

Future research should prioritize assessing the effectiveness of these programs for participants. Future development, implementation, and evaluation of these programs should include family members and friends and assess the sustainability of program delivery, including cost-effectiveness.

Level of caregiving burden and affecting factors in family caregivers of patients with lung cancer: A cross-sectional study

PURPOSE

To determine the caregiving burden level and affecting factors of family members caring for patients with lung cancer (LC).

METHODS

This study used a cross-sectional design and a convenience sampling method. The study was conducted between April 2023 and August 2023 with the LC patients (n = 448) and their caregivers (n = 448) who met the inclusion criteria and were followed up in seven clinics of a specialized hospital for pulmonary diseases in Turkey. Data were collected by using (1) a demographic questionnaire (for patient and caregiver), (2) the Zarit Burden Interview (ZBI), (3) the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI), and (4) the Caregiver Quality of Life Index-Cancer (CQoLC).

RESULTS

The study included 448 caregivers, with a mean age of 45.09 ± 13.48 years, and 71.4% were female. The mean ZBI score of 31.45 ± 16.71 indicated mild to moderate burden. Pearson correlation analysis showed that caregivers' depression levels increased and quality of life decreased significantly as the care burden increased. Multiple regression analysis indicated a significant relationship between the caregiver burden and the patient's age (p < 0.05), caregiver's chronic disease (p < 0.05), type of treatment given to the patient (p < 0.05), patient's metastasis status (p < 0.05) and caregiver's quality of life (p < 0.01).

CONCLUSION

The fact that most of the risk factors identified in this study are non-modifiable highlights the necessity of identifying caregiver burden early by nurses and initiating the appropriate support processes.

Mindfulness-Based Interventions for Survivors of Lung Cancer and Their Partners: A Systematic Review

BACKGROUND

Survivors of lung cancer and their partners often have complex unresolved physical, psychosocial, and behavioral needs that can negatively affect the survivors' and partners' well-being. This systematic review aimed to (1) examine the content and delivery of mindfulness-based interventions (MBIs) and (2) summarize and synthesize the current evidence for effectiveness of MBIs targeting survivors of lung cancer and/or one selected partner (dyads).

METHOD

Six databases were searched for interventional studies published in English between 1980 and June 2020 using three terms (lung neoplasms, mindfulness, caregivers). For outcome measures, the interventions focused on behavioral change (meditation, yoga, stretching, breathing), symptom management (dyspnea, fatigue, sleep disruption, anxiety, depression, stress reduction), and knowledge. Two reviewers independently assessed article eligibility. One reviewer performed and another independently verified data extraction. The Cochrane risk-of-bias tool for randomized trials was used to critically appraise RCTs.

RESULTS

Searching yielded 307 records, of which 64 were assessed for eligibility. Six studies investigated the impact of an MBI on survivors and partners. Four studies were single-arm feasibility studies; two were RCTs. Two feasibility studies and one RCT recruited romantic couples whereas the others recruited asymmetrical dyads. The single-arm studies reported strong feasibility and acceptability. RCTs reported significant outcomes for reduced cancer-related distress and depression, and improved QOL, self-compassion, mindfulness skills, and rumination.

CONCLUSION

Dyadic intervention research is a growing field. Few interventions target individuals with lung cancer and their partners. No interventions target partners alone. Future research should evaluate rigorous methodologies that enhance the understanding of independent and interdependent health-related effects within dyads and across relationships and settings.

Enhancing resilient coping strategies for quality of life in Chinese adult children caregiving for parents with advanced cancer: a cross-sectional study

PURPOSE

This study investigated the mediating role of individual resilience in the relationship between caregiver burden and quality of life (QoL) among Chinese adult children providing care to their parents with advanced cancer, with the aim to inform effective coping strategies and positive caregiving outcomes.

METHODS

In a cross-sectional design, 614 caregivers from multiple centers, whose parents were undergoing chemotherapy and/or radiotherapy, completed questionnaires encompassing demographics, caregiver burden, symptoms of anxiety and depression, resilience, and QoL.

RESULTS

Findings revealed a moderate level of caregiver burden among participants, significantly influenced by factors including education level, family income, single-child status, and participation in social media patient support groups. Caregivers who were only children or involved in patient support groups reported higher burden. Importantly, path analysis showed a significant impact of caregiver burden, anxiety, and depression on QoL, with these relationships being mediated by individual resilience.

CONCLUSIONS

Chinese adult child caregivers face a considerable burden, negatively influencing their QoL. Individual resilience, a modifiable factor, was identified as a critical mediator in this relationship, mitigating the negative implications of caregiver burden, anxiety, and depression. These findings underscore the need for caregiver interventions that consider not only demographics but also the socio-psychological dynamics of caregiving to enhance caregiver QoL.

Positive Mental Health Scale (PMHS) in Parents of Children with Cancer: A Psychometric Evaluation Using Item Response Theory

Mental health is currently a public health issue worldwide. However, evidence is lacking regarding the validity of the instruments used to measure and assess positive mental health in specific populations. The objective of this study was to evaluate the psychometric properties of the PMHS using IRT. A cross-sectional retrospective study with non-probabilistic convenience sampling was conducted with 623 parents of children undergoing cancer treatment at the National Institute of Health in Mexico City. The participants responded to a battery of tests, including a sociodemographic questionnaire, the PMHS, Measurement Scale of Resilience, Beck Depression Inventory, Inventory of Quality of Life, Beck Anxiety Inventory, an interview regarding caregiver burden, and the World Health Organization Well-Being Index. PMHS responses were analyzed using Samejima's graded response model. The PMHS findings indicated that the IRT-based graded response model validated the single latent trait model. The scale scores were independent of depression, anxiety, well-being, caregiver burden, quality of life, and resilience. The PMHS scores were associated with low subjective well-being. The PMHS findings reveal that from an IRT-based perspective, this scale is unidimensional and is a valid, reliable, and culturally relevant instrument for assessing positive mental health in parents of children with chronic diseases.

Acceptance of Caregiver-Patient Support to Latinx Coping with Advanced Cancer (CASA) Intervention: A Caregiver Case Study

Latinos frequently assume caregiver roles when the need arises in their social nucleus. Because of their active role, caregivers are heavily involved in their family member's cancer trajectory. Therefore, there is a need for culturally adapted interventions that integrate the caregiver and cancer patient. The objective is to present a case study of a former caregiver's experience and acceptance of the cultural adaptation of Caregiver-Patient Support to Latinx Coping with Advanced Cancer (CASA) intervention. We conducted a case study with a male caregiver between the ages of 20 and 30. A male caregiver expressed his experience and acceptance of a psychosocial intervention. He conveyed moderate to high acceptance of intervention components through anecdotes and opinions based on his experiences as a caregiver for multiple family members. Finally, he reported distress, but he presented little to no symptoms of caregiver burden, depression, anxiety, and hopelessness. It is crucial to culturally adapt interventions that integrate caregivers when they play a big part in their loved one's cancer journey. Integrating their perspective when adapting an intervention may assist in providing essential information that will benefit the patient and caregiver.

Study Protocol for the Breathe Easier Trial: A Pilot RCT of a Dyad-Based, Multiple-Behavior Intervention for Improving Physical and Emotional Health in Survivors Facing Lung Cancer

BACKGROUND

Research targeting survivors of lung cancer has yet to adequately address the management of physical deconditioning and unresolved symptoms (dyspnea, fatigue). The objective of the Breathe Easier trial is to test the feasibility and preliminary effects of a theory-based, multiple-behavior intervention (physical activity, smoking reduction for current smokers, stress management) targeting survivors of localized non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC, stages I-III) and their supportive partners.

METHODS

This pilot RCT will enroll 30 dyads (60 participants). Each dyad will consist of one survivor and one partner (defined as a family member or friend) Dyads will be randomized to the Intervention Group (IG) or the Attention Control Group (AC). IG members will receive the 12-week, home-based intervention based on the individual and family self-management theory, which targets improvements in self-efficacy, social support, and self-regulation. Improvement in lifestyle behaviors is a proximal outcome. Improvements in physical and emotional health are distal outcomes. Breathe Easier (IG) includes educational content written in plain language as well as breathing exercises and meditations; SMART goal setting; daily text messaging; and weekly telephone calls with trained staff. The AC program includes relevant National Institutes of Health publications plus weekly telephone chats. Members who currently smoke will also receive an evidence-based smoking cessation resource.

DISCUSSION

Breathe Easier focuses on changes in multiple behaviors in dyads coping with a diagnosis of NSCLC (stages I-III) with the overall purpose of improving physical and emotional health. Findings will provide additional evidence of the feasibility and preliminary effects of this intervention.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT05956782; This trial was registered retrospectively.

Psychological predictors of quality of life among Jordanian cancer patients' caregivers

OBJECTIVE

The caregivers who provide care for patients with cancer often experience emotional and psychological stressors and burdens that could be influenced by several factors, including the cultural context. This study examines the level of emotional distress and burden and their effect on the quality of life (QOL) of Jordanian cancer patients' caregivers.

METHODS

A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 257 family caregivers of patients at various stages of cancer.

RESULTS

The average age of caregivers was 37.5 years (SD = 12.2). Most caregivers (145; 59.2%) were female and married (168; 68.6%). About a quarter were partners (32.2%) and lived with their patients (137; 55.9%). Caregivers with a reduced overall Caregiver Quality of Life Index-Cancer (CQOLC) score were more likely to be older, the parents of the patients, and living with patients in the same house. A significant negative relationship was found between caregivers' CQOLC and Zarit Burden Interview (r = -0.7, p = 0.001), anxiety (r = -0.69, p = 0.001), and depression (r = -0.42, p = 0.03) scores. Multiple linear regression analysis revealed that burden, anxiety, and depression scores were independent predictors and explained 63% of the variance in the total CQOLC score of caregivers.

CONCLUSION

Cancer caregivers are at elevated risk of poor QOL. Despite participants' low perception of the burden level, this study provides preliminary results for policymakers and medical practitioners to foster a comprehensive platform supporting cancer caregivers. Moreover, identifying the caregivers' readiness to provide the needed care and the availability of supportive resources, as a clinical routine, is strongly recommended.

Effectiveness of a perioperative support programme to reduce psychological distress for family caregivers of patients with early-stage lung cancer: study protocol for a randomised controlled trial

INTRODUCTION

Family caregivers play a key role in providing ongoing long-term care and assistance to their loved ones during cancer treatment. However, family caregivers of patients with lung cancer are frequently unprepared for their roles and they may undergo psychological distress, thus reducing their own quality of life while affecting patients' health outcomes. Interventions that specifically target this population are lacking. This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of a perioperative support programme on family caregivers of patients with early-stage lung cancer.

METHODS AND ANALYSIS

This study is guided by the Stress-Coping Model. Family caregivers of patients diagnosed with early-stage lung cancer and those who are scheduled for lung resection treatment will be invited to participate. Participants will be randomised to groups that either receive the perioperative support programme or usual care. The intervention consists of four face-to-face intervention sessions during the hospital stay and two weekly telephone follow-up sessions after discharge. Primary and secondary outcomes will be assessed at baseline and at 4 and 12 weeks after the intervention. Primary outcomes will include psychological distress and secondary outcomes will include caregiving burden, quality of life, coping style and social support. Generalised estimation equation model will be used to analyse the intervention effects.

ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION

The study was approved by the Ethics Committee of the Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University (LYG2022003). The authors will disseminate the study's findings by publishing them in international scientific journals.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

ChiCTR2200058280.

Factors Related to the Caregiving Burden on Families of Korean Patients With Lung Cancer

The purposes of this study were to describe caregiver burden on families of patients with lung cancer and to examine its associated factors, including patient symptoms and symptom clusters. In this cross-sectional study, 120 patient-caregiver dyads were recruited from an outpatient clinic in a tertiary care hospital. Patient symptoms and caregiver burden were measured with structured questionnaire. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used to analyze data. Three patient symptom clusters were identified. Hierarchical regression showed that a patient's smoking history; caregiver age, education, health status, depression, social support, monthly family income, relationship with patient, and time spent on nursing each day; and presence of another caregiver explained 41.4% of the total variance in caregiver burden. When patient symptom clusters were added to regression model, change in total variance in caregiver burden was significant. To reduce their burden, caregivers should be taught how cancer progresses and its major symptoms after chemotherapy.

Gender differences in the association between unmet support service needs and mental health among American cancer caregivers

PURPOSE

Cancer caregiving can be distressing, and many caregivers have support service needs. Given the role gender has played in shaping norms around caring, gender may influence caregiving experiences. Using Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System data, 2015-2018, we aimed to examine gender as an effect modifier of the unmet support service needs and mental health association among cancer caregivers.

METHODS

Our n = 5814 sample represented approximately 4.8 million caregivers. Mental health was operationalized as number of mentally unhealthy days over the past 30 (MUDs) and Frequent Mental Distress (FMD, MUDs ± 14 days). Unmet supportive care needs included endorsement of needing but not receiving caregiving classes, help accessing services, support groups, counseling, and respite care. We conducted zero-inflated negative binomial (ZINB) and logistic regression analyses to examine the associations between unmet needs with MUDs and FMD and then tested gender as an effect modifier.

RESULTS

Cancer caregivers reported an average of 6 MUDs. Approximately 20% of caregivers reported FMD, and 17% reported having any unmet needs. Gender moderated the unmet needs and FMD association. Among female caregivers, those with unmet needs were more likely to report FMD (aOR: 2.167; 95%CI: 1.447, 3.243); among male caregivers, no association was found (aOR: 0.970; 95%CI: 0.471, 2.001). In the ZINB model of MUDs, no significant moderation effect of gender was found.

CONCLUSION

Though distress does not appear to vary by gender, having unmet support needs may negatively affect mental health in female cancer caregivers. Studies on gendered experiences can inform strategies to meet caregiver needs.

3Cs: the experiences of informal caregivers of patients undergoing thoracic surgery

The informal caregiver is pivotal to the postoperative experience of patients. The purpose of this study was to explore the informal caregivers' experience while accompanying patients through thoracotomy surgery. Specifically, and exclusively, the informal carers' personal reactions, needs and views regarding their experience in the patients' surgery trajectory were explored. A convenience sample of eight informal caregivers of patients who had undergone thoracotomy were interviewed approximately 2 weeks following discharge from a general hospital in Malta. The findings revealed knowledge regarding participants' experiences of demands and fears associated with the 3Cs: cancer, challenges and coping. The impact of timely information-sharing and support on the informal caregiver's experience was highlighted. These findings suggest that careful consideration of both a patient's and informal caregiver's needs promotes an enhanced hospitalisation experience, and creates opportunity for a better transition back home. Implications for research and practice are discussed.

The Role of Family Caregivers in the Care of Older Adults with Cancer

OBJECTIVES

To provide an overview on the role of family caregivers (FCGs) in the care of older adults with cancer and review quality of life needs for FCGs.

DATA SOURCES

Journal articles, research reports, state of the science papers, position papers, and clinical guidelines from professional organizations were used.

CONCLUSION

The high prevalence of multiple comorbidities and the associated burden of geriatric events in older adults have a substantial impact on the quality of life of their FCGs. Practical and efficient models of comprehensive assessment, interventions, and caregiving preparedness support are needed to improve outcomes for both older adults with cancer and their FCGs.

IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING PRACTICE

Oncology nurses practicing in clinical and research settings have a responsibility to prepare themselves with evidence-based knowledge and resources to include the needs of FCGs in the care provided to older adults with cancer.

A Prospective Pilot Study Evaluating Feasibility and Preliminary Effects of Breathe Easier: A Mindfulness-based Intervention for Survivors of Lung Cancer and Their Family Members (Dyads)

Objective: Symptom burden remains a distressing problem for survivors with non-small-cell lung cancer (stages I-IIIa). This pilot study evaluated feasibility and preliminary effects of a tailored mindfulness-based intervention, Breathe Easier, which encompasses meditation, 2 levels of mindful hatha yoga, breathing exercises, and participant interaction.

METHODS

Participants were recruited from 2 cancer programs in the US Southeast. A family member was required for participation. Sixty-two participants enrolled (20% recruitment) and 49 completed the intervention (79% retention). Participants chose level 1 yoga (basic) or level 2 (more advanced). Of the completers, survivors were 39% male and 65% Black. A community-based participatory research framework helped identify the specific needs and interests of potential participants and foreseeable barriers to implementation. A 2-month prospective, 1-group, pre-post design evaluated feasibility. Intervention dosage was measured using written protocols. Attendance and completion of daily home assignments measured adherence. Acceptability was assessed using a 10-item questionnaire, completed at three time points. Preliminary outcome data collected pre- and post-intervention tested the hypothesis that participants who received the 8-week intervention Breathe Easier would, post-intervention, demonstrate (a) less dyspnea, (b) less fatigue, (c) less stress, (d) improved sleep, (e) improved anxiety and depression, and (f) improved functional exercise capacity. Exit interviews were conducted, transcribed verbatim, and analyzed for content using descriptive statistics.

RESULTS

Quantitative and qualitative measures indicated strong feasibility. Over time, level 1 participants had statistically less dyspnea, fatigue and improved exercise capacity, as well as improved sleep, and stress scores. Level 2 participants experienced slightly increased dyspnea and fatigue but improved sleep, stress, and exercise capacity. All participants experienced anxiety and depression within normal limits pre- and post-intervention. Five major themes emerged out of exit interviews: Learning to Breathe Easier; Interacting with Others as a Personal Benefit; Stretching, Releasing Tension, and Feeling Energized; Enhancing Closeness with Committed Partners; Refocusing on Living; and Sustaining New Skills as a Decision.

CONCLUSIONS

The study offers insight into the feasibility of an 8-week in-person mindfulness-based intervention with a unique subset of understudied survivors of lung cancer and family members. Outcome data interpretation is limited by the 1-group design and sample size.

"The effects of cancer on a family are way beyond the person who's had it": The experience and effect of a familial cancer diagnosis on the health behaviours of family members

PURPOSE

People who are first-degree relatives of cancer patients are at an increased risk of developing cancer themselves. Despite this, relatives of cancer patients do not always make beneficial changes to their health behaviours. This study aimed to answer the following questions: (1) do the health behaviours of people who are first-degree relatives of cancer survivors change following cancer diagnosis, and if so, how, and why, (2) what motivations/barriers exist for first-degree relatives when seeking to engage with health promoting behaviours, and (3) what do first-degree relatives believe healthcare organisations can do to improve uptake of healthy lifestyle changes.

METHOD

Nine biological first-degree relatives of cancer survivors living in Ireland (6 children, 2 siblings, 1 parent) participated in semi-structured interviews which were later thematically analysed.

RESULTS

Findings revealed four superordinate themes: Being Conscious/Aware, Limited Lifestyle Changes, Psychosocial Consequences of Experience, and Unmet Needs, with each of these themes having two to three subordinate themes. Patient and public involvement emphasised Unmet Needs, including needs for information and family support, as the theme that was most reflective of participants' lived experience.

CONCLUSIONS

Results suggest that while family members tend not to change their lifestyle behaviours following cancer diagnosis, they do seem to make changes to their medical behaviours. Additionally, they can be negatively impacted by the experience in several other ways. Identifying means of support will allow relatives to cope better post diagnosis.

Caregiving burden, depression, and anxiety in family caregivers of patients with cancer

PURPOSE

The purpose of this cross-sectional study was to determine the caregiving burden, depression and anxiety of family caregivers of Turkish patients with cancer and the affecting factors.

METHODS

This cross-sectional study was conducted between January-May 2018 with one hundred and fifty-eight caregivers and one hundred and fifty-eight patients with cancer who were treated at a university hospital in Edirne, Turkey. Data were collected with a questionnaire form, Zarit Burden Interview (ZBI) Scale and the Hospital Anxiety Depression Scale (HADS).

RESULTS

This study found that 51.3% of the patients with cancer were male, 70.3% of the caregivers were female and more than half of them (57.0%) were the spouses of the patients. The mean ZBI score of the caregivers was 24.62 ± 14.19. There was a positive relationship between the ZBI scores and HADS scores of family caregivers (p < 0.05). As the caregiving burden of caregivers increased, their anxiety and depression levels were increased too. It was found that as the caregiving duration of family caregivers increased, the caregiving burden increased, and caregivers' anxiety depression scores got worse (p < 0.05). In the multivariate analysis, the duration of caregiving per day/hours, ECOG score and the age of the caregiver independently affected the caregiving burden (p < 0.05). As the functional status of the patient with cancer got worse, caregiving burden increased. Caregiving burden was found to be higher in those who were younger, female and giving care for longer times per day (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

This study found that as the caregiving burden and caregivers' daily patient care duration increased, the level of anxiety and depression increased too. Caregivers of patients with cancer should take appropriate psychological intervention to decrease their distress. In addition, we thought that healthcare professionals must consider the factors affecting the caregiving burden which affect the patient care directly.

[Social support and quality of life of families with children with congenital heart disease]

The scope of this article is to evaluate to what extent social support for families with children with congenital disease impacts their quality of life. It involved a cross-sectional study with 254 parents of children with congenital heart disease. A semi-structured interview was conducted with the parents, using the Ecomap and the quality of life (World Health Organization Quality of Life Bref) and social support (Medical Outcomes Study) scales. Receiving social support was positively correlated with quality of life (r=0.535; p<0.001). A 10-point increase in the social support scale led to a 3-point increase in the total score of the quality of life scale (β=0.30; CI95%: 0.23; 0.37). Socioeconomic conditions were associated with quality of life (β=0.27; CI95%: 0.11; 0.43) and caregivers who reported not having leisure activity (β=-3.27; CI95% -5.55; -1.12) and who were undergoing health treatment (β=-2.86; CI95%: -5.55; -0.17) had a lower perception of quality of life. Negative consequences to the quality of life of caregivers taking care of a child with congenital heart disease can be intensified by a lack of leisure activity and having health problems. Adequate social support and socioeconomic resources positively influence the quality of life of these caregivers.

Roles of age and sources of cancer caregiving stress in self-reported health and neuroendocrine biomarkers

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the extent to which age and specific sources of caregiving stress are associated with cancer caregivers' health. Methods: New colorectal cancer caregivers (n = 88; age M = 49) reported caregiving stress (i.e., disrupted schedule, lacking family support, financial strain) and mental and physical health, and collected saliva samples assayed for neuroendocrine biomarkers (cortisol and α-amylase). Results: Disrupted daily schedule due to caregiving was associated with poorer self-reported mental health across all ages (B= -4.19, 95% CI: -6.59--1.80, p <.01), and associated with dysregulated cortisol patterns among older caregivers, but with more regulated cortisol patterns among younger caregivers, ps ≤ .01. Across all ages, lacking family support was associated with poorer self-reported physical health (B= -2.13, 95% CI: -4.33--0.07, p <.05), but more regulated α-amylase patterns (B = 2.51, 95% CI: 0.83-4.19, p <.01). Financial strain related to regulated cortisol levels only among older caregivers (B = 5.07, 95% CI: 0.58-9.57, p = .03) and more regulated α-amylase patterns across all ages (B= -25.81, 95% CI: -48.72--2.90, p <.05). Conclusion: Findings suggest that specific sources of caregiver stress manifest in health outcomes distinctly by age, and support the need for targeted psychosocial interventions for cancer caregivers.

Lifestyle behaviors and intervention preferences of early-stage lung cancer survivors and their family caregivers

PURPOSE

Lung cancer (LC) is a highly prevalent disease with more survivors diagnosed and treated at earlier stages. There is a need to understand psychological and lifestyle behavior needs to design interventions for this population. Furthermore, understanding the needs and role of family caregivers, especially given the risks associated with second-hand smoke, is needed.

METHODS

Thirty-one early-stage (stages I or IIA) LC survivors of (52% men) and 22 (50% women) caregivers (N = 53 total) completed surveys after surgery (baseline) and at 3- and 6-month follow-ups. Participants reported on psychological functioning, smoking, and physical activity (PA) as well as intervention preferences.

RESULTS

Survivors reported low levels of psychological distress and 3% were current smokers during the study. Approximately 79% were sedentary and not meeting national PA guidelines. Caregivers also reported minimal psychological distress and were sedentary (62% not meeting guidelines), but a larger proportion continued to smoke following the survivor's cancer diagnosis (14%). Both survivors and caregivers expressed interest in home-based PA interventions but differed regarding preferred format for delivery. Most (64%) caregivers preferred a dyadic format, where survivors and caregivers participate in the intervention together. However, most survivors preferred an individual or group format (57%) for intervention delivery.

CONCLUSION

Both LC survivors and family caregivers could benefit from PA interventions, and flexible, dyadic interventions could additionally support smoking cessation for family caregivers.

Perceived Control Prevents Perception of Negative Changes in Life as a Result of Caring for a Patient With Heart Failure

INTRODUCTION

Family caregivers of patients with heart failure (HF) commonly experience emotional distress and caregiving burden. Despite their caregiving distress, caregivers may experience positive or negative changes in their life compared with before caregiving. Greater perceived control is associated with better health outcomes, but little is known about whether perceived control is related to caregivers' perceptions of positive or negative changes in life, independent of their distress and burden in providing care for patients with HF. The specific aims were to compare emotional distress and caregiving burden between caregivers who perceived positive versus negative changes in life due to caregiving and to examine whether perceived control predicts the perception of positive or negative changes in life while controlling for emotional distress and caregiving burden.

METHODS

Primary caregivers of patients with HF (N = 140, 75% women) completed questionnaires about perceived positive or negative changes in life as a result of caregiving, perceived control, depressive symptoms, anxiety, and caregiving burden. Independent t test, χ2, and logistic regressions were used to accomplish specific aims.

RESULTS

Compared with caregivers who reported positive changes in life (42%), caregivers who perceived negative changes in life (58%) had higher levels of depressive symptoms, anxiety, and caregiving burden. Lower level of perceived control was an independent predictor of perceived negative changes in life, controlling for age, gender, depressive symptoms, anxiety, and caregiving burden (odds ratio, 0.89; 95% confidence interval, 0.79-0.99; P = .0038).

CONCLUSION

Greater perceived control played a protective role for caregivers independent of caregiver burden. Interventions designed to enhance perceived control may improve caregivers' perceptions of changes in their life.

A Focus Group Evaluation of Breathe Easier: A Mindfulness-Based mHealth App for Survivors of Lung Cancer and Their Family Members

PURPOSE

To explore attitudes and acceptance (i.e., intent for future adoption) of survivors of lung cancer and their family members toward a dyad-focused mHealth mindfulness-based intervention (MBI).

APPROACH

Focus groups.

SETTING

Community hospital setting in South Carolina.

PARTICIPANTS

Survivors n = 11 (M = 64.6 years; 73% female; 64% African American) of non-small cell lung cancer (stage I-IIIa) and their family members, n = 8 (M = 58.6 years; 38% female; 75% African American).

INTERVENTION

A fully functional prototype mHealth app to deliver a tailored MBI for survivors of lung cancer and their family members.

METHOD

Semi-structured focus groups were conducted and assessed using thematic data analysis to identify the benefits, concerns, needs, and expectations of the app.

RESULTS

Convenience and health were the top benefits of using the app, while cost and difficulty of use were the top concerns. Survivors mentioned benefits more than their family members did. Participants felt positively about adding a community network to the app. Finally, participants expected to hear about Breathe Easier from their care provider.

CONCLUSION

Participants perceived a benefit to having credible health information delivered through an mHealth app. Guidance and credible health information regarding lung cancer survivorship should be accessible and convenient for everyone impacted by the disease. Thus, future research should explore platforms for a virtual support system and understanding dissemination of mHealth apps through health care providers.

Strain Among Caregivers of Older Adults Diagnosed With Breast Cancer

OBJECTIVES

To illustrate the predictors of strain among caregivers of older adults diagnosed with breast cancer.

SAMPLE & SETTING

This study involved 39 women diagnosed with breast cancer who were aged 69 years or older, receiving any type of treatment, and seeking an initial assessment in a geriatric oncology program at a large cancer center in the midwestern United States and their caregivers.

METHODS & VARIABLES

This cross-sectional study evaluated relationships among the variables of caregiver strain, age, employment status, patient characteristics, and patient scores on the comprehensive geriatric assessment. Bivariate statistics and logistic regression models were used.

RESULTS

Increasing age of the caregiver was associated with less caregiver strain. Caregivers employed part-time experienced greater strain than those employed full-time.

IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING

Nurses must assess for strain in caregivers of individuals diagnosed with cancer, particularly if they are younger and employed part-time. Caregivers of depressed patients should be assessed for strain and offered support.

The psychosocial needs and quality of life of family caregivers of patients with organ transplant

Background

Families of patients with organ transplants experience many problems, both with the onset of illness and during the hospitalisation of their relative for an organ transplant. The healthcare providers try their best to give high-quality care to patients. However, they neglect quality of life and psychosocial needs of family caregivers.

Aims

This study aimed to assess the psychosocial needs and quality of life of the family caregivers of post-transplant patients and the relationship between these two variables.

Methods

This descriptive correlational study was conducted on liver, kidney and bone marrow transplant wards in the largest transplant centre affiliated with a university of medical science in south-eastern Iran. The sample included 230 family caregivers of post-transplant patients, who were selected using quota sampling. Data were collected using the 45-item questionnaire of psychosocial needs (the Critical Care Family Needs Inventory) with five dimensions (assurance, comfort, information, proximity and support), and the Short Form-36 Quality of Life questionnaire with eight scales (physical functioning, physical problems, emotional problems, social functioning, pain, vitality, mental health and perception of health). In the Critical Care Family Needs Inventory, 1 indicates not important and 4 very important. In the Short Form-36 Quality of Life questionaire, 0 indicates the worst health and 100 the best health.

Results

The participants rated the mean of their psychosocial needs as important (3.18 ± 0.27). Also, the mean of quality of life of participants was at an undesirable level (45.17 ± 92.66). The psychosocial needs of the caregivers showed a poor, inverse significant relationship with their quality of life (r = -0.16, p = 0.01).

Conclusion

The results showed that with increasing psychosocial needs of family caregivers of post-transplant patients, their quality of life declines. Healthcare providers should implement developed plans and appropriate strategies to fulfil psychosocial needs and improve the quality of life of family caregivers of these patients.

Who cares? The impact on caregivers of suspected mining-related lung cancer

Background

In the present study, we investigated the emotional, physical, financial, occupational, practical, and quality-of-life impacts on caregivers of patients with mining-related lung cancer.

Methods

This concurrent, embedded, mixed-methods study used individual in-depth qualitative interviews and the 36-item Short Form Health Survey (version 2: RAND Corporation, Santa Monica, CA, U.S.A.) quality-of-life measure with 8 caregivers of patients with suspected mining-related lung cancer who had worked in Sudbury or Elliot Lake (or both), and sometimes elsewhere. Individuals who assist workers in filing compensation claims were also interviewed in Sudbury and Elliot Lake. Interviews (n = 11) were transcribed and analyzed thematically.

Results

Caregiver themes focused on the long time to, and the shock of, diagnosis and dealing with lung cancer; not much of a life for caregivers; strong views about potential cancer causes; concerns about financial impacts; compensation experiences and long time to compensation; and suggestions for additional support. Quality-of-life scores were below the norm for most measures. Individuals who assist workers in preparing claims were passionate about challenges in the compensation journey; the requirement for more and better family support; the need to focus on compensation compared with cost control; the need for better exposure monitoring, controls, resources, and research; and job challenges, barriers, and satisfaction.

Conclusions

Caregivers expressed a need for more education about the compensation process and for greater support. Worker representatives required persistence, additional workplace monitoring and controls, additional research, and a focus on compensation compared with cost control. They also emphasized the need for more family support.

Lung Cancer Patient and Caregiver Health Vulnerabilities and Interest in Health Promotion Interventions: An Exploratory Study

Introduction

Lung cancer patients and their caregivers are at risk for negative health behaviors and poor psychosocial functioning, but few interventions exist that target this population. To inform intervention development, we explored potential targets and interest and concordance in health promotion interventions among lung cancer patients and their caregivers.

Methods

Lung cancer patients (n = 18) with a smoking history and their caregivers (n = 15) participated in a cross-sectional, observational survey study (an average of 1 month postdiagnosis) to assess health behaviors, psychosocial functioning, and interest in health promotion interventions. Fisher’s exact and Wilcoxon rank-sum tests examined factors associated with intervention interest. McNemar’s test examined concordance in interest.

Results

Many caregivers (40%) reported providing care at least 4 days per week, and over half (53.3%) reported a smoking history. Patients reported high cancer self-blame (mean = 3.1, standard deviation = 0.9, range = 1–4). Patients (55.6%) and caregivers (60%) reported clinically significant depressive symptoms. There was high interest and concordance in interest in cancer education (patients, 77.8%; caregivers, 86.7%) and diet and exercise (patients, 66.7%; caregivers, 80%) interventions. Significantly more caregivers were interested in stress reduction (patients, 53.3%; caregivers, 73.3%; P = .05) and yoga (patients, 16.7%; caregivers, 50%; P = .03) than patients. Caregivers interested in stress reduction interventions had higher levels of distress than those not interested.

Discussion

Health promotion interventions are needed and of interest to lung cancer patients and caregivers. Shared interests in interventions suggest dyadic interventions may be appropriate, yet interventions should also address distinct patient and caregiver needs.

Dispositional mindfulness, self-compassion, and compassion from others as moderators between stress and depression in caregivers of patients with lung cancer

OBJECTIVE

The present study aimed to identify the most important protective factors predicting caregivers' depressive symptoms among factors of caregivers' dispositional mindfulness, self-compassion, compassion from others, and patients' dispositional mindfulness and their moderator effects on the relationship between caregiving stress and depressive symptoms.

METHODS

A total of 72 lung cancer outpatients and their family caregivers participated in this study. Family caregivers completed the Kingston Caregiver Stress Scale, Beck Depression Inventory-II (BDI-II), Five Facet Mindfulness Questionnaire (FFMQ), Self-Compassion Scale, and Compassion from Others Scale. Patients completed the EORTC Quality of Life Questionnaire Core 30 (EORTC QLQ-C30), BDI-II, and FFMQ.

RESULTS

After controlling for patients' factors (treatment status, symptom distress, and depressive symptoms) and caregivers' health status, caregivers' stress and dispositional mindfulness, the domain of mindful awareness, and self-compassionate action were significantly associated with their depressive symptoms. Further analysis indicated that mindful awareness or self-compassionate action could buffer the effect of caregiving stress on depressive symptoms. When the two moderators, mindful awareness and self-compassionate action, were tested simultaneously, only self-compassionate action remained as a significant moderating effect.

CONCLUSIONS

Caregivers' mindful awareness and self-compassionate action were protective factors, which mitigate the impact of caregiving stress on their depressive symptoms. Therefore, the future supportive program aims at training the competencies of self-compassionate action with mindful awareness, which may enhance caregivers' coping resources.

Family Caregivers' Involvement in Caring with Cancer and their Quality of Life

Background: Cancer is a chronic disease and a major health problem. It affects both patients and their family caregivers multidimensionally. The family caregivers may be affected by not only the disease process but also hospital policies, economic difficulties, accessibility and communication of health care service and can be in need of help. This process may affect their quality of life. However, there have not been enough studies on quality of life of family caregivers of patients with cancer in Turkish culture. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the quality of life of family caregivers of patients with cancer in Turkey. Objectives: The purpose of study was to evaluate the quality of life of family caregivers with cancer patients in Turkey. Methods: Participants consist of the family caregivers who volunteered to take part in this descriptive study from 11 hospitals (n =378) which has a daily chemotherapy units and located within the boundaries of Ankara, Turkey. ‘Sociodemographic Characteristic Form’ and ‘Quality of Life Scale-Family Version were used as data collection tool. The Kruskal-Wallis and Mann-Whitney U, tests were used for data analysis. Resultes:It is found that there are statistically significant difference among the factors of gender, employment status, income level, and whether caregivers reside with their patients. Family caregivers’ quality of life is negatively affected during the caregiving process (p < 0.05). Conclusion: The results indicate that family caregivers’ quality of life are negatively affected to care process. The results of this research are important as they highlight the need to also consider family caregivers’ quality of life when caring for patients, and study highlight possible areas in which support can be provided for family caregivers of cancer patients in Turkey.

Social consequences of advanced cancer in patients and their informal caregivers: a qualitative study

PURPOSE

Cancer threatens the social well-being of patients and their informal caregivers. Social life is even more profoundly affected in advanced diseases, but research on social consequences of advanced cancer is scarce. This study aims to explore social consequences of advanced cancer as experienced by patients and their informal caregivers.

METHODS

Seven focus groups and seven in-depth semi-structured interviews with patients (n = 18) suffering from advanced cancer and their informal caregivers (n = 15) were conducted. Audiotapes were transcribed verbatim and open coded using a thematic analysis approach.

RESULTS

Social consequences were categorized in three themes: "social engagement," "social identity," and "social network." Regarding social engagement, patients and informal caregivers said that they strive for normality by continuing their life as prior to the diagnosis, but experienced barriers in doing so. Regarding social identity, patients and informal caregivers reported feelings of social isolation. The social network became more transparent, and the value of social relations had increased since the diagnosis. Many experienced positive and negative shifts in the quantity and quality of their social relations.

CONCLUSIONS

Social consequences of advanced cancer are substantial. There appears to be a great risk of social isolation in which responses from social relations play an important role. Empowering patients and informal caregivers to discuss their experienced social consequences is beneficial. Creating awareness among healthcare professionals is essential as they provide social support and anticipate on social problems. Finally, educating social relations regarding the impact of advanced cancer and effective support methods may empower social support systems and reduce feelings of isolation.

Health behavior changes in African American family members facing lung cancer: Tensions and compromises

PURPOSE

Behavioral interventions targeting cancer survivors often fail to address the clustering of unhealthy behaviors among family members and friends, and the impact of close relationships on behavior change. The study's aim was to identify factors associated with receptivity and preferences for lifestyle behavior change among family members of African-American survivors of lung cancer.

METHODS

Principles of social cognitive theory guided the design. A descriptive, qualitative study recruited 26 African-American family members of lung cancer survivors from two teaching hospitals in the southeastern United States. A 20-item Information Form collected demographic, health status, and health behavior information. Family members participated in one of three semi-structured focus group discussions.

RESULTS

Four major themes emerged: family members and survivors both resisted the caregiver role; dramatic changes evoked by the diagnosis of lung cancer were facilitators and barriers to lifestyle choices; leaning on faith was the primary source of support; and these families live with a constant threat of multiple cancers. Findings emphasize the importance of meaningful conversations among health-care providers, survivors, and family members during the time of diagnosis, treatment, and recovery, so that family members are better prepared to cope with anticipated changes.

CONCLUSIONS

This study highlights the stressors that affect family members and sheds light on their unique needs. The stressors limit their ability to change health behaviors. Family members need basic education, skills training, and support related to the lung cancer diagnosis and other cancers. Current methods to provide these services are limited in their accessibility, availability, and effectiveness.

Experiences of caregivers by care recipient's health condition: A study of caregivers for Alzheimer's disease and related dementias versus other chronic conditions

This study described experiences of caregivers of persons with Alzheimer's disease and other dementias (ADRD) and caregivers of persons with other chronic conditions on self-reported health, type of assistance they provide, perceptions of how caregiving interferes with their lives, and perceived level of support. A secondary analysis was conducted of the 2013 Porter Novelli SummerStyles survey data. Of the 4033 respondents, 650 adults self-identified as caregivers with 11.6% caring for people with ADRD. Over half of all caregivers reported that caregiving interfered with their lives to some extent. The greater the perceived support caregivers reported, the less they thought that caregiving interfered with their lives (p < .001). No significant differences were found between ADRD and non-ADRD caregivers regarding general health, types of assistance they provided, and perceived level of support. These findings have the potential to inform future research and practice in the development of supportive services for caregivers.

Preparing Cancer Patients and Family Caregivers for Lung Surgery: Development of a Multimedia Self-Management Intervention

The surgical treatment of lung malignancies often results in persistent symptoms, psychosocial distress, and decrements in quality of life (QOL) for cancer patients and their family caregivers (FCGs). The potential benefits of providing patients and FCGs with preparatory education that begins in the preoperative setting have been explored in multiple medical conditions, with positive impact observed on postoperative recovery, psychological distress, and QOL. However, few studies have explored the benefits of preparatory educational interventions to promote self-management in cancer surgery, including lung surgery. This paper describes the systematic approach used in the development of a multimedia self-management intervention to prepare cancer patients and their FCGs for lung surgery. Intervention development was informed by (1) contemporary published evidence on the impact of lung surgery on patients and FCG, (2) our previous research that explored QOL, symptoms, and caregiver burden after lung surgery, (3) the use of the chronic care self-management model (CCM) to guide intervention design, and (4) written comments and feedback from patients and FCGs that informed intervention development and refinement. Pilot-testing of the intervention is in process, and a future randomized trial will determine the efficacy of the intervention to improve patient, FCG, and system outcomes.

Coping Skills Practice and Symptom Change: A Secondary Analysis of a Pilot Telephone Symptom Management Intervention for Lung Cancer Patients and Their Family Caregivers

CONTEXT

Little research has explored coping skills practice in relation to symptom outcomes in psychosocial interventions for cancer patients and their family caregivers.

OBJECTIVES

To examine associations of coping skills practice to symptom change in a telephone symptom management (TSM) intervention delivered concurrently to lung cancer patients and their caregivers.

METHODS

This study was a secondary analysis of a randomized pilot trial. Data were examined from patient-caregiver dyads (n = 51 dyads) that were randomized to the TSM intervention. Guided by social cognitive theory, TSM involved four weekly sessions where dyads were taught coping skills including a mindfulness exercise, guided imagery, pursed lips breathing, cognitive restructuring, problem solving, emotion-focused coping, and assertive communication. Symptoms were assessed, including patients' and caregivers' psychological distress and patients' pain interference, fatigue interference, and distress related to breathlessness. Multiple regression analyses examined associations of coping skills practice during the intervention to symptoms at six weeks after the intervention.

RESULTS

For patients, greater practice of assertive communication was associated with less pain interference (β = -0.45, P = 0.02) and psychological distress (β = -0.36, P = 0.047); for caregivers, greater practice of guided imagery was associated with less psychological distress (β = -0.30, P = 0.01). Unexpectedly, for patients, greater practice of a mindfulness exercise was associated with higher pain (β = 0.47, P = 0.07) and fatigue interference (β = 0.49, P = 0.04); greater practice of problem solving was associated with higher distress related to breathlessness (β = 0.56, P = 0.01) and psychological distress (β = 0.36, P = 0.08).

CONCLUSION

Findings suggest that the effectiveness of TSM may have been reduced by competing effects of certain coping skills. Future interventions should consider focusing on assertive communication training for patients and guided imagery for caregivers.

Study protocol of a randomized controlled trial comparing integrative body-mind-spirit intervention and cognitive behavioral therapy in fostering quality of life of patients with lung cancer and their family caregivers

Compared to cancers at other sites, lung cancer often results in greater psychosocial distress to both the patients and their caregivers, due to the poor prognosis and survival rate, as well as the heavy symptom burden. In recent years, making protocols of proposed or on-going studies publicly available via clinical trial registries and/or peer-reviewed journals has benefited health sciences with timely communication of the latest research trends and improved transparency in reporting. However, such practice is yet to be a common sight in evidence-informed social work. Hence, this paper discusses the value of publishing protocols in social work research and presents the protocol of a randomized controlled trial that compares the effectiveness of integrative body-mind-spirit intervention with cognitive behavioral therapy for enhancing quality of life of patients with lung cancer and their family caregivers. The data collection process was still on-going at the time of manuscript submission.

Development of a Symptom Management Intervention: Qualitative Feedback From Advanced Lung Cancer Patients and Their Family Caregivers

BACKGROUND

Little is known about cancer patient and family caregiver preferences for the content and format of nonpharmacologic interventions. Revising interventions based on patient and caregiver feedback before implementation may improve intervention feasibility and acceptability, especially in the context of advanced-stage cancer.

OBJECTIVES

The aim of the study was to obtain feedback from patients with advanced-stage, symptomatic lung cancer and their family caregivers on the content and format of a nonpharmacologic symptom management intervention under development. The intervention blended evidence-based cognitive-behavioral and emotion-focused strategies to reduce physical and psychological symptoms.

METHODS

Semistructured qualitative interviews were conducted with 21 patients with advanced-stage, symptomatic lung cancer and caregivers. Participants reviewed handouts regarding intervention components and provided feedback.

RESULTS

Patients and caregivers desired intervention components that addressed the patient's high symptom burden such as education regarding treatment adverse effects and the provision of various coping tools. Offering interventions with a brief or flexible length and delivering them via telephone were other suggestions for enhancing intervention acceptability. Participants also preferred an equal focus on patient and caregiver concerns and a more positive intervention framework.

CONCLUSIONS

Intervention preferences of patients with advanced-stage lung cancer and caregivers underscore the severity of the disease and treatment process and the need to adapt interventions to patients with high symptom burden. These preferences may be incorporated into future intervention trials to improve participant recruitment and retention.

IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE

Nurses can modify interventions to meet the needs of patients with advanced-stage, symptomatic lung cancer and caregivers. For example, flexibility regarding intervention content and length may accommodate those with significant symptoms.

Pilot Study of a Communication Coaching Telephone Intervention for Lung Cancer Caregivers

BACKGROUND

Family caregivers are a key communication source for nurses, and there is a need to provide communication skill building for caregivers.

OBJECTIVE

A pilot study was conducted to determine feasibility and use of a communication coaching telephone intervention aimed at improving caregiver confidence in communication and reducing psychological distress.

METHODS

A printed communication guide for caregivers and a 1-time communication coaching call delivered by a research nurse were provided to caregivers. Recruitment and attrition, implementation and content of coaching calls, caregiver outcomes, and satisfaction with intervention were analyzed.

RESULTS

Twenty caregivers were recruited across 4 cohorts-diagnosis, treatment, survivorship, and end of life-with recruitment greater than 70%. Caregiver calls averaged 37 minutes, and most caregivers reported communication challenges with family members. Caregiver action plans revealed a need to develop communication skills to ask for help and share information. Caregivers reported satisfaction with the print guide, and 90% of caregivers followed through with their action plan, with 80% reporting that the action plan worked. Caregiver confidence in communication with healthcare providers was improved, except for caregivers of cancer survivors.

CONCLUSIONS

Recruitment and attrition rates demonstrate feasibility of the intervention. Caregivers reported that the communication coaching telephone intervention was considered valuable and they were able to implement a communication action plan with others.

IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE

Lessons were learned about intervention content, namely, that nurses can help caregivers learn communication strategies for asking for help, sharing cancer information, and initiating self-care.

Exploring Gender Differences in Self-Reported Physical Activity and Health Among Older Caregivers

PURPOSE/OBJECTIVES

To document self-reported physical health and activity levels of older caregivers. Gender differences in physical health, physical activity levels, and predictors of physical activity were also examined.
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DESIGN

A cross-sectional study.
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SETTING

Tom Baker Cancer Centre in Calgary, Alberta, Canada.
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SAMPLE

130 caregivers aged 60 years or older caring for individuals with breast, prostate, or colorectal cancer.
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METHODS

Self-report survey including validated questionnaires on physical and mental health and physical activity levels. Convenience sampling was used. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, correlations, and multiple regression.
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MAIN RESEARCH VARIABLES

The physical component score of the SF-36v2® was the main research variable. Other variables included the mental component score of the SF-36v2, sleep quality, depression, social support, physical activity levels, and anxiety.
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FINDINGS

The mean age of caregivers was 70 years. Physical health and physical activity levels were higher than population norms. A significant difference in physical health (p = 0.015) existed between men and women but not in physical activity levels (p = 0.079). Predictors of physical activity levels were age (β = -0.291), physical health (β = 0.307), and caregiving hours per week (β = -0.221).
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CONCLUSIONS

The findings suggest that gender had a minimal effect on physical health and no effect on physical activity levels in older caregivers. Depression and poor sleep quality were high in some caregivers but did not predict physical activity levels. 
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IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING

The negative effects of caregiving on physical health and physical activity levels in older caregivers are not universal. Nurses should be aware of the caregiving situation and promote health based on the individual.

Trajectories of mental and physical functioning among spouse caregivers of cancer survivors over the first five years following the diagnosis

OBJECTIVE

Identify the trajectories of physical and mental functioning among spouse caregivers of patients with cancer over the first five years post-diagnosis and variables associated with low or deteriorating functioning.

METHODS

Caregivers completed a survey at 6 months and 1, 2, 3.5, and 5 years post-patient diagnosis, including the SF-12 for quality of life (QOL). SF-12 Mental Component Summary (MCS, n=299) and Physical Component Summary (PCS, n=300) scores were analyzed using SAS.

RESULTS

Five trajectories for PCS were identified, the top three were: (a) high PCS (53.0%); (b) steady decline in PCS (17.0%); and (c) steady increase, but remaining below population norm (16.7%). Five trajectories for MCS were also identified, the top two being: (a) high MCS (45.8%) and (b) MCS comparable to population norm (27.8%). Variables associated with low or deteriorating QOL included depression, social support, coping, burden, and/or unmet needs.

CONCLUSIONS

This is the first study to document spouse caregivers' QOL over the first five years post-patient diagnosis. Although many participants experienced high functioning, almost a third reported low or deteriorating mental or physical functioning.

PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS

Variables associated with low or deteriorating mental and physical functioning can be targeted in future interventions.

Significance of Psychological Stress Response and Health-related Quality of Life in Spouses of Cancer Patients When Given Bad News

Objective:

This study illuminates the degree of psychological stress response experienced by spouses of cancer patients when given bad news at three different times (notification of the name of the disease, notification of recurrence, and notification of terminality) as well as the factors that influence the response and the health status of the spouse as measured by health-related quality of life (QOL).

Methods:

A total of 203 individuals (57 men and 146 women) who had received the three types of news were surveyed using a self-report questionnaire on psychological stress response, marital satisfaction, and health-related QOL scales.

Results:

The degree of the psychological stress response was the highest for notification of terminality, followed by notification of the name of the disease, and notification of recurrence. The influencing factors varied depending on the notification period. Although no significant difference was observed for health-related QOL among the three notification types, significant differences were observed for certain items when compared with national standard values.

Conclusions:

When a notification of terminality, which produced the highest psychological stress response, is given, providing care that considers health-related QOL is necessary not only for patients but also for their spouses.

Assessment of Health-Related Quality of Life Among Caregivers of Patients with Cancer Diagnosis: A Cross-Sectional Study in Saudi Arabia

A descriptive cross-sectional survey was conducted over 5 months in two tertiary hospitals in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The 5-month period was from November 2014 to March 2015. The survey instrument used was a Short-Form Health Survey SF-36 (the RAND 36-item) questionnaire that measure QOL of the caregivers. Our study subjects included 289 randomly selected Saudi caregivers. Almost all the mean scores were increased (higher than 50) with the exception of levels of energy/fatigue. Role functioning/physical scored the highest (81.02 ± 35.33) followed by physical functioning (76.34 ± 29.83). Other domains of QOL scored (71.02 ± 35.33) for the role functioning/emotional; pain (71.15 ± 28.48), emotional well-being (60.58 ± 18.44); social functioning (58.39 ± 25.83), and general health (54.32 ± 17.08). In multivariate regression analysis, the model predicts that the contributions of age, gender, and the cancer type of patients were a statistically significant predictor with the QOL domains of caregivers. Cancer caregivers in Saudi Arabia caring for patients more than 1 year after diagnosis reported favorable QOL. Factors associated with QOL domains included age, gender of the caregivers, and the types of cancer patients. These findings are encouraging as a baseline for providing more information to future studies in QOL of caregivers.

Self-administered acupressure for symptom management among Chinese family caregivers with caregiver stress: a randomized, wait-list controlled trial

Background

Caregiving can be stressful, potentially creating physical and psychological strain. Substantial evidence has shown that family caregivers suffer from significant health problems arising from the demands of caregiving. Although there are programs supporting caregivers, there is little evidence regarding their effectiveness. Acupressure is an ancient Chinese healing method designed to restore the flow of Qi (vital energy) by applying external pressure to acupoints. A randomized, wait-list controlled trial was developed to evaluate the effectiveness of a self-administered acupressure intervention on caregiver stress (primary objective) and stress-related symptoms of fatigue, insomnia, depression, and health-related quality of life (secondary objectives) in Chinese caregivers of older family members.

Methods

Two hundred Chinese participants, aged ≥ 21 years, who are the primary caregivers of an older family member and screen positive for caregiver stress and symptoms of fatigue/insomnia/depression will be recruited from a community setting in Hong Kong. Subjects will be randomized to receive either an immediate treatment condition (self-administered acupressure intervention) or a wait-list control condition. The self-administered acupressure intervention will include (i) an individual learning and practice session twice a week for 2 weeks, (ii) a home follow-up visit once a week for 2 weeks, and (iii) 15-min self-practice twice a day for 6 weeks. The wait-list control group will receive the same acupressure training after the intervention group has completed the intervention. We hypothesize that Chinese family caregivers in the intervention group will have lower levels of caregiver stress, fatigue, insomnia, depression, and higher health-related quality of life after completion of the intervention than participants in the wait-list control group.

Discussion

This study will provide evidence for the effectiveness of self-administered acupressure in reducing stress and improving symptoms of fatigue, insomnia, depression, and health-related quality of life in Chinese family caregivers. The findings will inform the design of interventions to relieve negative health effects of caregiving. Furthermore, the results can raise community awareness and serve as a basis for policymaking, planning, and allocation of resources regarding empowerment of family caregivers for self-care.

Trial registration

Current Controlled Trials NCT02526446. Registered August 10, 2015.

The suitability of the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, Distress Thermometer and other instruments to screen for psychiatric disorders in both lung cancer patients and their partners

BACKGROUND

Lung cancer patients and their partners report high rates of distress. Although distress is of importance, psychiatric disorders might be more important in terms of prognostic value and additional psychological treatment. This study examined the suitability of the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS), Distress Thermometer (DT), Beck Depression Inventory (BDI-II) and State subscale of State Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI-S) to screen for psychiatric disorders in lung cancer patients and partners.

METHODS

A consecutive sample of lung cancer patients and partners completed the screening instruments. The Structured Clinical Interview DSM-IV (SCID-I) was used to diagnose psychiatric axis I disorders.

RESULTS

In 144 patients, overall ability of HADS total score (HADS-T) screening for patients with psychiatric disorders was good, whereas DT appeared less suitable. In 98 partners, the performance of HADS-T was good. Although no instrument was successful in identifying psychiatric disorders, HADS-T came closest with a fair performance in patients and partners.

LIMITATIONS

Several patients and partners declined participation because they perceived participation as too distressing. As decliners possibly have the highest rates of disorders, our findings might underestimate the prevalence of psychiatric disorders. A low prevalence negatively affects the positive predictive value and complicates efficient screening for psychiatric disorders.

CONCLUSION

The HADS-T appears to be a suitable screening instrument for ruling out those lung cancer patients and partners without a psychiatric disorder. Regarding identifying those with a psychiatric disorder, HADS-T should be used to refer both patients and partners for further diagnostics and treatment to a psychiatrist/psychologist.

Are Mindfulness and Self-Compassion Related to Psychological Distress and Communication in Couples Facing Lung Cancer? A Dyadic Approach

Lung cancer patients and their spouses report high rates of distress. Due to the increasing popularity of and evidence for mindfulness-based interventions in cancer, mindfulness and self-compassion have been identified as potentially helpful skills when coping with cancer. This dyadic study examined how mindfulness and self-compassion are related to psychological distress and communication about cancer in couples facing lung cancer. Using the actor-partner interdependence model, self-reported mindfulness, self-compassion, psychological distress and communication about cancer were analyzed in a cross-sectional sample of 88 couples facing lung cancer. Regarding psychological distress, no difference was found between patients and spouses. In both partners, own levels of mindfulness (B = −0.19, p = .002) and self-compassion (B = −0.45, p < .001) were negatively related to own distress levels. At a dyadic level, own self-compassion was less strongly associated with distress if the partner reported high self-compassion (B = 0.03, p = .049). Regarding communication about cancer, patients reported to communicate more openly with their partner than with spouses. However, after controlling for gender, this difference was no longer significant. In both partners, own self-compassion (B = 0.03, p = .010) was significantly associated with own communication while mindfulness was not. A trend showed that mindfulness of the partner was related to more open communication in the individual (B = 0.01, p = .080). These findings give a first indication that mindfulness and self-compassion skills may go beyond the individual and could impact couple functioning. Future research should examine whether couples facing (lung) cancer may benefit from programs in which mindfulness and self-compassion are cultivated.

A Multicenter Pilot Study of Burden Among Caregivers of Geriatric Rehabilitation Patients With Neuromusculoskeletal Diseases

PURPOSE

In this study, we aimed to describe the sociodemographic characteristics of caregivers of patients in a geriatric unit and to clarify the relationship between caregiver burden and specific clinical variables in the patients and the characteristics of the caregivers.

DESIGN

Cross-sectional multicenter study.

METHODS

One hundred twenty-three patients and 123 caregiver dyads, with mean ages of 72.5 ± 7.7 years and 51 ± 14.7 years, respectively, were included. The functional, psychological, and cognitive statuses of the patients were determined, and the sociodemographic characteristics of the caregivers as well as the type and duration of caregiving were recorded. Caregivers completed the Caregiver Burden Inventory (CBI) to measure the perceived burden of care. Most patients were female and generally lived with their family.

FINDINGS

Most of the caregivers were family members (90%), female (73.2%), primary school graduates (52.8%), and first-degree relatives (73.1%). The average CBI score was 33, and the highest CBI subscores were for time, developmental, and physical burdens. Caregiver burden correlated with the patient's ambulatory, psychological, and cognitive status and with the caregiver's age, gender, income level, and duration of caregiving.

CONCLUSIONS

We have highlighted the relationship between caregiver and patient characteristics in a cohort of elderly Turkish patients with neurological and musculoskeletal disorders. In particular, we have highlighted the heavy caregiver burden in a developing country.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

Our results may guide the nurses to understand the requirements of caregivers and to help them find suitable resources that would meet their needs to cope with their burden.