UCLA Nursing faculty highlight research advancing support for cancer caregivers
Family caregivers play an essential role in cancer care, often helping loved ones manage treatment, navigate complex healthcare systems, and cope with the long-term effects of illness. Yet despite their contributions, caregivers frequently receive limited support themselves.
At the 4th Biennial Conference on Caregiving Research, two UCLA Joe C. Wen School of Nursing faculty members shared research aimed at better understanding and supporting cancer caregivers. Assistant Professor Eden Brauer, PhD, RN, and Associate Adjunct Professor Denice Economou, PhD, RN, CNS, CHPN, presented studies examining the needs of family caregivers across the cancer care continuum, from active treatment through long-term survivorship.
Dr. Brauer's presentation focused on an online mindfulness program developed for people living with pancreatic cancer and their family caregivers. The self-guided program adapts evidence-based mindfulness practices into a flexible format that participants can complete on their own schedules. Early findings suggest the program is both feasible and well received, with caregivers reporting improvements in quality of life and overall well-being. The study was conducted in collaboration with Barbara Demman, MSN, RN, ACNP, CNS, and Stephanie Lazaro, MSN, and was supported by the Hirshberg Foundation for Pancreatic Cancer Research.
Dr. Economou presented research examining the experiences of family caregivers supporting survivors of head and neck cancer. The study found that approximately one in three survivors continued to rely on a family caregiver years after diagnosis. These caregivers often provide practical assistance, emotional support, and help managing the lasting effects of cancer treatment. The findings highlight how caregiving responsibilities frequently extend well beyond active treatment and into survivorship. The research was funded by the UCLA Health Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center.
Together, the two studies underscore a growing recognition that family caregivers are integral members of the cancer care team. As healthcare increasingly shifts beyond hospital settings, research like this is helping identify strategies to support caregivers whose contributions are critical to patient outcomes and quality of life.
