Experiences in bereavement care for caregivers

PURPOSE: To investigate the mental and physical changes of bereaved caregivers. METHODS: We had 5 patients under residential care (1 with prostate cancer, 3 with urinary bladder cancer and 1 bedridden patient without malignant disease) and one month and one year after their death, we visited their family to provide bereavement care. RESULTS: Before the patient's death, all caregivers were uneasy and confused. At the deathbed, all of them were filled with deep grief and prostration. One month later, unrest and fatigue were reduced, all had the satisfaction of having taken care of their patients. One year later, only grief persisted and prostration was deserved in one caregiver. CONCLUSION: We provided bereavement care to 5 caregivers. It is suggested that in some cases long-term bereavement care is necessary.