SUPC-03 QUALITY OF LIFE GOALS AND FACTORS INFLUENCING QOL AMONG PATIENTS DIAGNOSED WITH BRAIN METASTASES AND THEIR CAREGIVERS: A MULTI-SITE QUALITATIVE STUDY

Abstract Understanding the goals and factors that influence the quality of life (QoL) of patients with brain metastases (BMETS) and their caregivers is essential for providing person-centered medical treatment and supportive care. We executed a multi-site study using longitudinal mixed methods to examine valued care processes and outcomes among patients with BMETS and their caregivers. Participants completed two interviews with ~2-4 months in between. Demographic, diagnostic, treatment, and QoL data were collected through baseline surveys and medical records. Interviews were analyzed using a two-phase hybrid directed and conventional content coding approach. Among patients (n=20, 70% female, median age of 66.5 years), 95% had baseline Karnofsky Performance Status (KPS) scores ≥70, reflecting varied primary cancer diagnoses and treatments. Caregivers (n=13) were 62% female and had a median age of 66 years. The majority (70%) were a spouse/partner. Median baseline QoL scores for patients and caregivers were 147.5/200 and 96/140, respectively. Patients’ QoL goals were improving physical health, maintaining/regaining functional abilities, and “living life” (e.g., engaging in leisure activities, spending time with loved ones). Caregivers’ QoL goals included being good caregivers and maintaining their own well-being. Both patients and caregivers reported “being in the present” as a goal. Participants identified factors influencing QoL goals across six domains: physical health, emotional health, care provision, support at home, intrapersonal relationships, and mindset. Caregivers also cited “sense of self” as a factor. Most factors positively and negatively influenced QoL goals, except for intrapersonal relationships and mindset which only had positive impacts. Patients and caregivers have clear QoL goals that are relevant to treatment and supportive care processes and outcomes. Considering QoL goals and the factors that influence them can inform strategies to allow treatment decision-making and the provision of supportive care for patients with BMETS and their caregivers to be more person-centered.