Cancer Caregivers
Research Study

This study is adapting a communication support program to help young adults who are caring for a parent with cancer talk more openly with their parent about the diagnosis.

Fast Facts

Caregiver to a parent with cancer

Ages
18-35

Compensation
up to $75

Conducted
remotely

Additional Information

Cancer caregivers in emerging and young adulthood (ages 18-35) are an underresearched and unsupported group of caregivers, and yet they are not uncommon. Caring for a parent with cancer is especially hard at this age because it flips the usual parent-child relationship and creates unique emotional and communication struggles. However, few caregiver programs are designed to support their needs of this unique group.

Research shows that families who talk openly about cancer tend to have better mental and physical health, for both the patient and the caregiver. The goal of this study is to capture data to improve communication-related support for young adult caregivers and their parents.

You may be eligible for this study if you meet the following criteria.

Inclusion Criteria:

  • Ages 18-35
  • Have a parent diagnosed with cancer (any type or stage)
  • Parent was diagnosed at least 3 months ago
  • Provided unpaid care to that parent within the last 12 months. This could include helping with personal needs or household chores, managing their finances, arranging for outside services, or visiting regularly to see how they are doing. You do not need to live with your parent to be eligible.

Your participation will involve a single 60-90 minute virtual focus group with other young adult caregivers.

Compensation is provided via a $75 Amazon gift card.

There is no cost for you to participate in our research study.