Dignity in Serious Illness : A Qualitative Exploration of Family Caregivers' Contributions in low middle-income country

OBJECTIVES: Dignity is perceived as being valued and respected. Maintaining dignity throughout illness is a fundamental principle of palliative care. Dignity can be influenced through family caregiver's communication, support, and acts of empathy or indifference among other factors. The perception of dignity and the practices adopted by family caregivers to preserve the dignity of their ill relative with serious illness in Lebanon are explored in this paper. METHODS: This is a part of a larger study that explored the understanding of dignity from patients' and family caregivers' perspectives in a palliative care context. Data collection involved in-depth interviews with 15 family caregivers. Interviews were analyzed using reflective thematic analysis. RESULTS: Four main themes, that explained how family caregivers understand, and uphold their relative's dignity during illness, were developed:(a) Familial duty expressed through presence and compassion;(b) Holistic care and financial stability;(c) Social connection and family roles;(d) Compassionate services and communication.Family caregivers maintained the dignity of their ill relatives through being there, compassionate communication, supporting the personal and medical needs of the patient, and helping them preserve their family role. Family caregiving was often underpinned by religious values and a sense of duty. Compassionate services and effective communication were essential to preserve dignity of the ill relative during hospitalizations. SIGNIFICANCE OF RESULTS: Family caregivers assume multiple roles in fostering the dignity of relatives with serious illnesses. It is crucial that family caregivers are supported by policies, healthcare systems, and community initiatives as patients cannot thrive nor sustain dignity without their support.