Factors on The Quality of Life in Family Caregivers of Elderly Patients with Advanced Lung Cancer During Radiotherapy

The quality of life (QoL) of family caregivers is pivotal to the treatment outcomes and prognosis of elderly patients with advanced lung cancer undergoing radiotherapy. This study assessed the multidimensional QoL of 138 caregivers using the Adult Carer Quality of Life Questionnaire (AC-QoL) and identified significant predictors. A cross-sectional survey design revealed that caregivers experienced a moderate overall QoL, with the highest scores in support for caring, sense of value, and ability to care, while the lowest score was observed in caring stress. Multiple regression analysis indicated that gender (p = .003), hours of care per week (p < .001), and tenure as a caregiver (p < .001) significantly predicted QoL, whereas age was not significant (p = .145). These findings highlight that male gender, longer caregiving hours, and greater tenure were associated with higher QoL, though stress remained prevalent. To address these challenges, the study underscores the need for caregiver-focused interventions such as stress management, skills training, and social support. Integrating caregiver well-being into oncology nursing practice is essential to enhance both caregiver and patient outcomes.