Support requirements for caregivers of patients with palliative cancer

Health policy is shifting from professional to informal care. Studies have shown that informal caregivers provide an average of 55% of the needed care. The aim of this study was to get insight in the needs of the caregivers of patients with palliative cancer and how to address those needs with a support program. A questionnaire developed on the basis of 26 interviews was sent to 65 caregivers. The respondents indicate that they do need support, that communication is considered the most important factor followed by practical information about nursing skills, the caregivers' own health and finally social network. The respondents also expressed a need for support after the patient died during bereavement. Most respondents stated they wanted to participate in a support program at least partly together with the patient, at the patient's home and guided by a supporter who has experience with loss and is a professional. (c) 2004 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved