Anticipatory grief - A neglected phenomenon among relatives of patients with incurable cancer: A qualitative study

Purpose

To explore the experience of being a relative to a patient with incurable cancer and the relatives’ perceived need for support.

Method

A qualitative design with a critical hermeneutics approach was applied. In total, 15 semi-structured individual interviews with relatives of patients with incurable cancer were conducted and analysed through a Paul Ricœur-inspired analysis.

Findings

Three themes emerged: (1) being in a paradoxical waiting position, (2) the complex need for a respite during the illness and (3) the importance of person-centred information and continuity. The themes highlight how relatives are in a vulnerable position experiencing anticipatory grief while waiting for the patient's death. They have ambivalent feelings because of the tension between the need to be supportive and the need for a respite from the illness. However, they do not want to centre their needs and remove the attention from the patient. Their needs change over time and increase the longer the cancer has lasted. In addition, the relatives need person-centred information and continuity among healthcare professionals.

Conclusion

Relatives of patients with incurable cancer are in a vulnerable position, with a range of complex and varied needs for support. This underscores the importance of healthcare professionals being aware of anticipatory grief and the management of relatives’ needs to avoid complicated grief and its consequences.