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


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.
Ross
Stephanie
S
Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Abbott Hall, Suite 1205, 710 North Lake Shore Drive, Chicago, IL 60611, USA.
Mosher
Catherine E
CE
Ronis-Tobin
Victor
V
Hermele
Sandy
S
Ostroff
Jamie S
JS
D000223:Adaptation, Psychological; D000328:Adult; D000359:Aftercare / Q000523:psychology* / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D017028:Caregivers / Q000523:psychology* / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D005260:Female; D006258:Head and Neck Neoplasms / Q000534:rehabilitation*; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008603:Mental Health / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D008875:Middle Aged; D020380:Needs Assessment; D011159:Population Surveillance; D011788:Quality of Life; D012917:Social Adjustment; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D017741:Survivors