Psychosocial Adjustment of Family Caregivers of Head and Neck Cancer Survivors

Overview

Journal Support Care Cancer

Specialties Critical Care
Oncology

Date 2009 Apr 25

PMID 19390870

Citations 22

Authors

Stephanie Ross

Catherine E Mosher

Victor Ronis-Tobin

Sandy Hermele

Jamie S Ostroff

Affiliations

Soon will be listed here.

Abstract

Purpose: This study examined the psychosocial adjustment and needs of family caregivers of head and neck cancer survivors at 6-24 months posttreatment.

Materials And Methods: Family caregivers of head and neck cancer survivors (N=89) completed mailed questionnaires that assessed demographic variables, mental health, quality of life, and practical and informational needs.

Results: Thirty-eight percent of caregivers reported moderate to high distress. However, quality of life scores for the entire sample (N=89) were better than the scores reported in initial validation studies on caregivers of patients undergoing active cancer treatment. Greater time spent caregiving was associated with worse psychological well-being, but also more positive adaptation to caregiving. In addition, 39% of caregivers reported that all of their practical and informational needs were being met.

Conclusions: Findings suggest that research and clinical efforts are needed to address the psychosocial concerns of this population.

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