Chapter 8: Caregiving Issues in People With a Cancer Diagnosis in Palliative Care

The growing incidence of cancer worldwide and the biopsychosocial consequences for the patient and caregiver are a major issue. Advanced cancer impels patients and their family caregivers to confront physical deterioration, emotional and existential suffering, the anticipation of loss and the end-of-life. Providing care at home allows patients to face the end-of-life in the comfort of their own homes, requiring family caregivers to acquire the basic skills needed to provide comfortable care, promoting quality at the end-of-life and dignity in death. Despite the needs and multiple challenges, frank and open communication on important end-of-life issues is a powerful tool for patients and families. Health professionals, as part of the care triad, are vital to providing care for the patient and support for the caregiver, empowering them both instrumentally and emotionally. The social and health policies on palliative care in each country may facilitate or constitute a barrier to the provision of dignified and differentiated care.