Cabaran Penjagaan Penjaga Tidak Formal Pesakit Kanser: Kajian Kes di Negeri Johor

Abstract

This study aims to identify the challenges faced by informal caregivers of cancer patients and examine the relationship between caregivers’ demographic backgrounds and their caregiving experiences. This qualitative study employed a case study approach using semi-structured interviews involving seven informal caregivers registered with the Tunku Laksamana Johor Cancer Foundation (YKTLJ). Thematic analysis was used to analyse the data, while data validation was conducted through member checking to ensure the reliability of the findings. The results reveal that informal caregivers face various challenges, including physical and mental fatigue, emotional stress due to patients’ behavioural changes, financial burden, and lack of social support. Demographic factors such as gender, marital status, age, education level, and place of residence were found to influence the types of challenges encountered. The study is supported by Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs Theory and the Caregiving Dynamics Theory, which explain how the imbalance between caregivers’ needs and caregiving demands can affect their overall well-being. The findings underscore the urgent need for structured and targeted support to be provided to informal caregivers through psychosocial interventions, financial assistance, and community-based caregiving training in order to enhance the quality of life for both caregivers and patients.