An Exploratory Study of Caregiver Burden Among Family Caregivers of Patients With Cancer

Study Overview
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Brief Summary
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This study will look at caregiver burden and the coping behavior of caregivers of patients with cancer. Through this study, the investigators will identify the relationship between cognitive dysfunction (measured as a proxy rating by the caregiver), resilience, social support, cognitive appraisal, coping behavior, and caregiver burden, anxiety, and depression among family caregivers of patients with cancer.

Detailed Description
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The goal of this study is to explore caregiver burden and the coping behavior of caregivers of patients with cancer. It has been documented that non-professional caregivers and long-term care providers to patients with cancer receive little preparation, information, or support to perform their vital role. Through this study, the investigators will identify the relationship between cognitive dysfunction, resilience, social support, cognitive appraisal, coping behavior, and caregiver burden, anxiety, and depression among family caregivers of patients with cancer. The findings of this study will direct future intervention studies to reduce caregiver burden and improve outcomes for the many individuals caring for family members with cancer.

Official Title
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An Exploratory Study of Caregiver Burden Among Family Caregivers of Cancer Patients

Conditions
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Caregivers, Cancer

Intervention / Treatment
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* Other: Questionnaire


Participation Criteria
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Eligibility Criteria
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Inclusion Criteria: Age ≥ 18 years Self-identified primary caregiver of patients with cancer Co-residence with the patient Providing a minimum of 4 hours of direct care for at least 3 days per week Able to speak, read, and understand English Willing to participate in completion of surveys Exclusion Criteria: Professional or paid caregivers

Ages Eligible for Study
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Minimum Age: 18 Years

Sexes Eligible for Study
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All

Accepts Healthy Volunteers
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Accepts Healthy Volunteers

Study Plan
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How is the study designed?
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Arms and Interventions

| Participant Group/Arm | Intervention/Treatment |
| --- | --- |
| Family caregivers<br>The sample for this study will consist of caregivers of patients with cancer. Eligible subjects who agrees to participate in the research study and sign the consent form will participate by completing paper and pencil or electronic questionnaires. | Other: Questionnaire<br>* Participants will complete paper and pencil or electronic questionnaires at the cancer center or in the privacy of their own homes.<br>|

What is the study measuring?
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Primary Outcome Measures

| Outcome Measure | Measure Description | Time Frame |
| --- | --- | --- |
| Changes in Caregiver Burden Score [Caregiver Reaction Assessment (CRA)] | Relation between caregiver burden subscale scores and caregiver resilience, social support, and coping | 1 year | 

Secondary Outcome Measures

| Outcome Measure | Measure Description | Time Frame |
| --- | --- | --- |
| Changes in Anxiety and Depression Score [Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS)] | Relation between caregiver anxiety and depression score and caregiver resilience, social support, and coping | 1 year |