Quality of Life Assessment of Caregivers of Patients With Multiple Myeloma
This study focuses on supporting people who care for patients with multiple myeloma, a type of blood cancer. When someone has myeloma, it affects their whole family, especially those who care for them every day. We know that these caregivers often face difficulties and might not get the support they need, which can affect their well-being. This research aims to explore if a programme offering education and assessing their needs can improve their quality of life. By helping caregivers, we hope to improve care for patients and reduce the strain on the healthcare system. The programme includes discussions with nurses and workshops to help caregivers understand the illness and develop skills to manage daily challenges.
At a glance
What is this study about?
When someone is diagnosed with a serious illness like multiple myeloma, it affects not just the patient but also their family and the people who care for them. Many treatments for myeloma are now given in outpatient clinics, meaning patients spend more time at home. This makes the role of unpaid caregivers, often family members or close friends, incredibly important in providing support and help with daily tasks.
We know from previous research that people caring for cancer patients often don't get all the support they need. This lack of support can make their own lives more difficult. This study wants to see if a special programme, which includes learning sessions and looking at what caregivers need, can make a positive difference to their quality of life. Our aim is to make things better for caregivers, as this can also help the patient they are looking after and reduce the overall strain on our healthcare services.
The idea behind this programme is called 'therapeutic education.' It's an ongoing process designed to help caregivers learn and keep up the skills they need to manage life alongside a long-term health condition. By giving caregivers the right tools and information, we hope to empower them and improve their overall well-being.
Key takeaways
- This study aims to improve the well-being of myeloma caregivers.
- It involves an educational program and workshops.
- Participation includes one-to-one chats and questionnaires.
- The workshops cover understanding the disease and coping skills.
- It's about helping caregivers manage daily challenges.
- You can withdraw from the study at any time.
Who may be eligible?
To join this study, you need to be caring for someone who has multiple myeloma and is currently receiving their first course of treatment. The patient needs to consider you their main caregiver.
You should be providing regular help to the patient each week, for example, with shopping, housework, personal care, or managing their daily activities. You must be 18 years old or older and be able to speak French फ्लूently. You also need to be part of a social security system.
However, you won't be able to join if the patient doesn't see you as their main caregiver, or if you are currently being treated for a serious health problem. You also can't take part if you are under legal protection, like a guardianship, or if you simply prefer not to participate.
Could this study suit you?
Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.
- Are you caring for someone with multiple myeloma who is just starting treatment?
- Do you help them regularly each week (e.g., with shopping, housework, personal care)?
- Are you 18 years old or older?
- Can you speak French fluently?
- Are you covered by a social security system?
What does participation involve?
If you decide to take part, the first step is to learn more about the study from the healthcare team and give your written permission. Then, you'll have a one-to-one chat with a nurse to talk about your needs and strengths as a caregiver. After this, you'll fill out a questionnaire by yourself, which asks about your quality of life as a caregiver.
Following these initial steps, you'll join a small group of other caregivers. This group will attend four workshops, each lasting about 1 hour and 30 minutes. These workshops will be spread over two half-day sessions, with two workshops in each session (for example, two workshops in week one and two in week two). The topics covered will include understanding multiple myeloma and learning to identify signs of problems.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (1)
- Hématologie clinique - Pitié-Salpêtrière Hospital (APHP)Verified postcodeParis, France
Common questions
What is multiple myeloma?
Multiple myeloma is a type of cancer that affects the plasma cells, which are found in the bone marrow. These cells are part of your immune system.
What does 'quality of life' mean in this study?
In this study, 'quality of life' refers to how well you are doing emotionally, physically, and socially as a caregiver, and how satisfied you are with your life.
How long will the study workshops last?
There will be four workshops in total. Each workshop will be about 1 hour and 30 minutes long, spread across two half-day sessions.
Will I have to pay to join this study?
No, you will not have to pay to participate in this study. It is free to join if you are eligible.
What if I can't attend all the workshops?
The study encourages participants to attend all workshops to get the full benefit. If you foresee issues, discuss them with the study team.
How to find out more
Anne LE BORGNE, Mrs
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Interested in taking part?
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