Relationship Between Anticipatory Grief and Communication Avoidance in Chinese Caregivers of Patients With Advanced Cancer

Background Anticipatory grief (AG) and its relationship with communication avoidance in Chinese caregivers of patients with advanced cancer have not been previously examined. An association between AG and communication avoidance could provide important insights to Chinese caregivers worthwhile to be investigated. Objectives The aims of this study were to evaluate AG and communication avoidance with patients among Chinese caregivers of patients with advanced cancer and to identify their relationship. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted with a convenience sample of caregivers of patients with advanced cancer practicing at an academic cancer hospital. The participants completed the Anticipatory Grief Scale (AGS) and the Caregivers' Communication With Patients About Illness and Death scale. Results Of the 256 participants, the mean age was 49.10 (SD, 12.87) years, and 63.28% of participants were female. The mean AGS score was 88.05 (SD, 18.42). The AGS subscales in descending order of scores were feeling of loss, sadness, decreased ability to function at usual tasks, anxiety, anger, guilt, and irritability. The mean Caregivers' Communication With Patients About Illness and Death score was 3.60 (SD, 1.13). In the multiple linear regression, AG severity was significantly, positively correlated with communication avoidance. Old age, low education level, religious belief, low income, and living with the patient, spouse, parents, and child implied severe AG. Conclusions Chinese caregivers of patients with advanced cancer reported a high AG and poor communication with patients about illness and death. Less communication was related to more severe AG. Implications for practice Healthcare professionals should pay attention to AG severity and communication of caregivers of patients with advanced cancer to explore the suitable clinical intervention.