Objectives
- Explore the unique needs of loved ones and caregivers of people with cancer
Diagnosis
- 650,000+ people die of cancer EACH year
- When someone is diagnosed, the patient and loved ones grieve
- Even if the cancer is “cured” or goes into remission there may be lasting disabilities and/or losses
- Loss of security (health anxiety in the patient and SOs)
- Loss of function or changes in appearance
- Cognitive impairment (“chemo-brain”) impacts attention, working memory, executive function, and processing speed
- Unmet needs of caregivers and patients were associated with increased physical symptoms, anxiety, and reduced QoL
- Not everyone experiences grief in the same way
- Families need to be educated about the grief bill of rights