Sokongan dan cabaran penjaga tidak formal pesakit kanser: kajian kes di Yayasan Kanser Tunku Laksamana Johor

Informal caregivers play a vital role in providing physical, emotional, and social support to cancer patients. However, they often encounter various challenges that can affect their own well-being. The purpose of this study is to identify the background of caregivers of cancer patients at the Tunku Laksamana Johor Cancer Foundation (YKTLJ), to identify the challenges faced throughout the caregiving journey; to determine the types of support needed by informal caregivers; and to explore the skills required to care for cancer patients. This study employs a qualitative method, using semi-structured interviews with seven informal caregivers of cancer patients. Thematic analysis was used to identify key patterns in the experiences of informal caregivers of cancer patients. The findings show that informal caregivers are primarily among family members: they face challenges in managing patients’ physical changes, coping with emotional stress, financial burdens, as well as physical and mental strain. They require emotional, social, and community support, along with knowledge about cancer. Skills in understanding the disease, providing care, and managing emotions are essential to enhance caregivers' efficiency. Several recommendations have been proposed to enhance the capabilities of informal caregivers, including the establishment of social support organizations, the development of applications for cancer patient care, the provision of platforms for tele-counselling and telehealth, as well as the delivery of digital training for caregivers. In conclusion, more effective interventions are needed to support informal caregivers in addressing the challenges they face, in order to improve the well-being of both caregivers and cancer patients.