Evaluating the effect of a family-centered empowerment model on the caring power and life satisfaction of family caregivers of older adults with cancer.

INTRODUCTION

Older adults with cancer face diverse challenges that require multidimensional care. Family caregivers, as the primary providers of care in the community, often undertake heavy responsibilities without sufficient training or support, which can negatively impact their mental health and quality of life. This study aimed to examine the effect of a family-centered empowerment model on Caring Power and life satisfaction among caregivers of older adults with cancer.

MATERIALS AND

METHODS

In this semi-experimental study, 80 family caregivers were conveniently selected and randomly assigned to two groups: the intervention group (receiving the family-centered empowerment program) and the control group (receiving usual education). Data were collected using standardized questionnaires prior to the intervention and six weeks after, then analyzed using appropriate statistical methods.

RESULTS

In the initial analysis using the independent t-test, the family-centered empowerment intervention significantly improved caregivers' effective role play, trust, awareness, and overall caring power. However, after controlling for confounding variables through multiple linear regressions, only the reduction in uncertainty and the increase in life satisfaction were significantly attributed to the intervention, while other dimensions of caring power were more influenced by individual and social factors rather than the educational intervention.

DISCUSSION: The effectiveness of the empowerment model appears limited without considering caregivers' individual, psychological, and social conditions. It is recommended that future programs incorporate psychological, financial, and cultural supports alongside education to enhance caregiving effectiveness and quality.