The experience of caring for an advanced lung cancer spouse: Vulnerable journey of caregiving

Objective: The aim of this study is to gain a deep understanding of the experience of carrying the role of spousal caregiver of an advanced lung cancer partner during treatment in hospital. Methods: A qualitative, descriptive phenomenology approach was applied to nine participants, who were chosen based on being in a vulnerable group: female, male, and elderly caregivers. Data collection was done using in-depth interviews. Colaizzi's method was applied in data analysis. Results: The findings revealed three themes shared from the participants’ perspectives and experiences about the caregiver role: changing roles in the family, sincerity in caring for an ill partner, and changes in closeness with the spouse. Conclusion: Spousal caregivers have an important role in patient treatment and also need interventions to enable them to perform and adjust to the caregiver role.