The Needs of Caregivers of People with COPD: A Study

Abstract

The purpose of this research was to replicate a study undertaken with different cohorts of clients and their caregivers in both Australia and the United States of America (USA). The researcher wanted to establish better local information, through the use of a survey, about the needs of informal caregivers who provide physical and emotional care, rehabilitation and supervision of treatments for patients with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), at home. Contemporary feedback about what caregivers perceive as critical to their ability to provide care in the home environment was identified. Health services, particularly professionals such as nurses within those services, need to respond appropriately to these needs.