Understanding the experiences of older caregivers of patients with lung cancer during palliative chemotherapy in China: a qualitative study.

PURPOSE

Although there has been an increase in research on caregivers of patients with cancer, there has been little focus on the specific experiences of older caregivers of patients with lung cancer and the effect of their cultural backgrounds on their experiences. This study explored the caregiver experience among the ageing population in China.

METHODS

Older caregivers of patients with lung cancer undergoing palliative chemotherapy were recruited. Data were collected using a qualitative descriptive design involving semi-structured interviews, which were recorded, transcribed verbatim and analysed qualitatively using inductive content analysis.

RESULTS

Eighteen caregivers aged 61-81 years completed the interviews. The following four themes were identified: physical difficulty, living with ambivalence, perception of role and role-related behaviour changes. These themes enabled a greater understanding of role-related behaviours in older caregivers and their challenges in addressing biological and psychosocial challenges related to older age.

CONCLUSION

The present study highlighted the vulnerability and perceived challenges of the role of older caregivers. These findings help lay the foundation for interventions to improve the care provided to caregivers and their health outcomes, especially caregivers with chronic conditions.