Identifying the unmet physical and psychological intimacy and sexual needs of partners of patients with terminal cancer

Abstract

Abstract Background Palliative care aims to improve the quality of life of patients who are terminally ill, but support for the sexuality of these patients is often inadequate. Aim To identify factors related to the unmet needs of bereaved partners whose significant others died of cancer during hospitalization. Methods Bereaved individuals in Japan aged >50 years who had lost their partners to cancer in a hospital in the last 5 years answered a questionnaire on the support desired for “time to nurture love with your partner.” Outcomes We used 3 sexual questions in the 34-item Supportive Care Needs Survey–Short Form (SCNS-SF34) and measured the unmet needs of partners of patients with terminal cancer. Results We obtained 290 responses (equal number of males and females). Respondents’ age distribution was as follows: 50 to 59 years, 34.8%; 60 to 69 years, 44.5%; 70 to 79 years, 19.3%; ≥80 years, 1.4%. In total, 81% had children. Most partners died in the general ward (59.3%). Frequency of time to nurture love with one’s partner before the illness was as follows: none at all, 44 (15.2%); very little, 84 (29.0%); once in a while, 76 (26.2%); occasionally, 45 (15.5%); and often, 41 (14.1%). Roughly 20% of participants reported experiencing unmet sexual needs across all 3 selected questions in the SCNS-SF34. Multivariate analysis showed that younger age (P = .00097) and a higher frequency of time to nurture love with one’s partner before illness (P = .004) were positively associated with unmet needs for sexuality during hospitalization. Clinical Implications The study may help health care workers identify patients who are seeking sexual support. Strengths and Limitations This study identified the unmet needs and underlying factors regarding sexuality during hospitalization for partners of patients with terminal cancer. However, differences by cancer type could not be analyzed. Additionally, the modified version of the supportive care needs measure used in this study (SCNS-SF34) may have decreased validity owing to the alterations made for its use. Conclusion Some hospitalized patients with terminal cancer could need support for time to nurture love with their partners. Health care providers can play a crucial role by anticipating the needs of patients, preparing them mentally, and offering counseling and information to help them maintain an intimate connection with their loved ones.