Communicatively Constructing the Bright and Dark Sides of Hope: Family Caregivers' Experiences during End of Life Cancer Care

Behavioral Sciences
Jody Koenig KellasMarlene Z Cohen

Abstract

(1) Background: The communication of hope is complicated, particularly for family caregivers in the context of cancer who struggle to maintain hope for themselves and their loved ones in the face of terminality. In order to understand these complexities, the current study examines the bright and dark sides of how hope is communicated across the cancer journey from the vantage point of bereaved family caregivers; (2) Methods: We analyzed interviews with bereaved family caregivers using qualitative thematic and case oriented strategies to identify patterns in the positive and negative lived experiences when communicating about hope at the end of life; (3) Results: Two overarching patterns of hope emerged. Those who experienced hope as particularized (focused on cure) cited communication about false hope, performing (faking it), and avoidance. Those who transitioned from particularized to generalized hope (hope for a good death) reported acceptance, the communication of hope as social support, prioritizing family, and balancing hope and honesty; (4) Conclusion: Family caregivers face myriad complexities in managing the bright and dark sides of hope. Interventions should encourage concurrent oncological and palliative care, increas...Continue Reading

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Citations

Jul 15, 2017·Behavioral Sciences·Maureen P Keeley
Jan 18, 2018·The American Journal of Hospice & Palliative Care·Airin WolfKristiina Hyrkas
Sep 28, 2017·Supportive Care in Cancer : Official Journal of the Multinational Association of Supportive Care in Cancer·Maryam HashemiFariba Taleghani
Nov 30, 2018·BMC Family Practice·Anne B WichmannA Stef Groenewoud

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