Date of Completion

2025

Document Type

Research Project

Degree Name

Grade 12

Keywords

cancer patients, family caregivers, lived experiences, phenomenological study, lifestyle changes, behavioral changes, family support, holistic care.

Abstract

The study shed light on the lived experiences of cancer patients through the lenses of their family members’ perspectives, which focuses on how the family influences lifestyle, behavior, and emotional well-being. Cancer has remained a struggle not only for the patients themselves but also for their family members, with the countless adjustments in their lifestyle and behavior. Despite having an abundance of research regarding cancer patients' perspectives on their diagnosis, the gap in how family caregivers perceive the diagnosis and its changes remains. Through a phenomenological qualitative study, a semi-structured interview was conducted with five participants, which revealed that patients undergo significant changes such as dietary adaptations, medical adherence, reduced physical activity, and emotional withdrawal. The findings show that family involvement greatly influences the behavior and lifestyle of the patients, aiding in the adjustment, coping process, and overall healing of the patients. The study essentially stresses the importance of family care, integrating emotional, social, spiritual, and physical support in helping improve the patient’s quality of life by caring for the patients and family members not only physically but holistically.

First Advisor

Grace A. Naval

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