research

Caregivers Benefit from Programs Specific to their Needs

Psycho-Oncology, July 6, 2009

In a recent study, 1,666 caregivers participated in a survey of 60 items designed to evaluate their needs related to caring for a cancer survivor. Caregivers at two months, two years and five years of caregiving experience were assessed across various domains such as emotional well-being, daily activity, medical needs and social relationships. Caregivers whose psychosocial, medical, financial or daily activity needs were unmet reported poorer mental health than those who were getting those needs met. Interventions designed to help caregivers manage their own emotional distress and foster supportive familial relationships benefited caregivers by improving their quality of life.

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