Caregiving Motivation Predicts Long-Term Spirituality and Quality of Life of the Caregivers

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Studies have shown that caregivers report impaired quality of life (QOL). This study investigated how caregiving motives predict long-term spirituality and QOL among cancer caregivers and the role of gender in these associations. METHOD: Caregiving motives of family members (n = 369) were measured 2 years after their relative's cancer diagnosis (T1), and both spirituality and QOL (mental and physical health) were measured at 5 years postdiagnosis (T2). RESULTS: Structural equation modeling was used to test spirituality dimensions as potential mediators of links from caregiving motives to QOL. Among male caregivers, autonomous caregiving motives at T1 related to better mental health at T2, apparently because these motives led caregivers to find greater peace and meaning in life at T2. CONCLUSIONS: Findings suggest that caregivers may benefit from interventions that facilitate their ability to be autonomously motivated and find contentment in their caregiving experience, which may improve spiritual adjustment and QOL years later.

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