Caregiver Support: Finding Sanctuary
Intended Audience
For members who are care partners, spouses, families and friends who are providing primary care to a loved one with cancer.
Program Description
Finding Sanctuary uses group discussion to address the experience of being a caregiver. Because of the intimate nature of attending to a person who is ill, we are drawn deeper into the relationship, leading us into new territory. This is often experienced as fatigue (because it is hard work) and can lead to burn-out if we do not recognize our own needs in the process. Finding Sanctuary is an opportunity to acknowledge our experience of caregiving and to develop strategies for balancing our lives so we factor ourselves and our needs into the caring relationship.
“I have learned beneficial self care practices. In order to be a good caregiver, I must also care for myself.”
“This program helped me tune into myself and give myself a much needed break!”
Benefits and Impact
Members experience an open, non-judgmental and inviting atmosphere in which to discuss the benefits and challenges of caregiving. With as much candor as they choose, they are invited to exchange experiences and strategies in order to adjust to new roles and learn the importance of self care. Benefits include camaraderie, new energy and a renewed sense of well-being.
What to Expect at a Session
The facilitator begins by presenting material on a theme chosen as a guide for conversation. As the evenings unfold, members are invited to direct the conversation to other pertinent topics. The facilitator’s role is to offer insight and guidance, and to honour all contributions. Members are encouraged to participate as much or as little as they wish.
What the Research Says
In 2012, Statistics Canada reported that cancer was the top reason for spousal caregiving, and the majority of all caregivers provided care for their parents. In a qualitative study conducted by Richardson et al., 73 family caregivers of head and neck cancer patients indicated common needs included help for practical tasks, help in understanding their loved one’s treatment plans, the need to experience empathy from healthcare
professionals, and more information about how to access support materials and support groups. The majority of caregivers expressed a preference for face-to-face meetings to allow for greater empathy, understanding, and improved ease in relationship-building. Caregivers in group sessions reported benefits such as improved coping skills, compassion,
practical information, and the opportunity to express their emotions and fears with others going through similar experiences. (Statistics Canada. Government of Canada. Portrait of Caregivers, 2012 (Richardson AE, Morton R., Broadbent E. (2015). Psychological support needs of patients with head and neck cancer and their caregivers: A qualitative study, Psychology & Health, 30(11): 1288-1305).
FOR RELATED RESEARCH CLICK HERE:
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/1608841
