Behind the scenes of palliative care: Qualitative study with oncology family caregivers

Abstract

Purpose

Long-term caregiving tasks can be exhausting for family caregivers, resulting in high psychological morbidity. The study aims to explore the experiences, challenges, and strengths of family caregivers providing care for cancer patients in palliative care, in-patient or at home.

Method

Nine caregivers were included, predominantly women aged 34 to 70, from various regions of Portugal. They participated in four focus groups between May 2021 and May 2022, held online due to COVID-19 restrictions. A qualitative research methodology was employed, using semi-structured interviews conducted through focus groups. Data were analyzed using thematic analysis to identify key themes in caregivers' experiences.

Results

The study revealed several challenges, categorized into three main themes, listed in order of frequency: (lack of) communication, pain and suffering, and caregiver burden. Death emerged as a meta-category. Despite these difficulties, caregivers identified sources of strength and support that helped them cope during this time.

Conclusions

The findings underscore the profound impact of caregiving on family members and highlight the need for enriched support systems and interventions to reduce caregiver burden and suffering, boosting their resources. Despite its limitations, the study's diverse and rich content illustrate the value of group settings in fostering belonging and comfort among caregivers.