Background: Cancer caregivers experience significant stress due to their multifaceted role. Current support methods are limited by unidimensional assessments.
Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate a Web-based support system aimed at reducing caregiver stress and anxiety, and improving resilience, vigilance, and quality of life, using both subjective and objective measures.
Methods: A randomized controlled trial with a single-center, 2-arm parallel design and longitudinal assessment was conducted in Taiwan. Caregivers of patients recently diagnosed with cancer were randomly allocated to either a standard care group or an intervention group that received enhanced nurse-led support. Metrics including psychological resilience, caregiver burden, anxiety, quality of life, stress levels, and vigilance were systematically evaluated on a monthly basis over a period of 5 months, starting from the initial baseline measurement.
Results: Following the intervention, participants in the intervention group exhibited statistically significant reductions in caregiver burden and anxiety, alongside a notable improvement in resilience. Objective evaluations revealed a significant reduction in stress levels within this group. However, there were no discernible differences in vigilance and quality of life metrics between the intervention and control groups.
Conclusion: The Web-based program effectively reduced caregiver stress and burden, as indicated by multiple metrics.
Implications for practice: This accessible and efficient Web-based support is beneficial for cancer caregivers facing diverse challenges.
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