2026 Volume 21 Issue 2 Pages 156-169
Objective: This study aimed to identify the characteristics of non-cohabiting family caregivers who preferred to share or delegate the responsibility of accompanying cancer survivors to outpatient chemotherapy appointments in rural settings. The analysis was based on the hypothesis that greater transport-related burdens would be associated with stronger preferences for delegation.
Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted among caregivers of patients undergoing outpatient chemotherapy. Data on caregiver demographics, employment status, income, scheduling flexibility, and support preferences were collected. Geographic information systems (GIS) were used to visualize spatial relationships between caregivers and medical facilities. Descriptive and inferential statistical analyses were performed to examine caregiver characteristics and support preferences. Fisher’s exact test was used for categorical comparisons, and odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated to assess effect sizes. Statistical analysis of geographic factors was not conducted because of the wide variation in travel distances and the limited sample size.
Results: Of the 40 individuals approached, 27 responded (67.5%), and 26 completed all survey items (65.0%). A preference for shared transport options was significantly associated with an annual income below 5 million yen (OR=15.75, 95% CI: 1.07–232.52) and the need to adjust personal schedules for caregiving responsibilities (OR=18.33, 95% CI: 2.71–124.00). GIS analysis indicated a median travel time of 95.5 min (interquartile range [IQR]: 70.5–169.6) and a median travel distance of 97.7 km (IQR: 44.7–173.8). The longest recorded travel route required 588.7 min and covered 442.2 km.
Conclusion: The findings indicate substantial caregiving burdens among caregivers with limited finances and employment constraints who do not live with care recipients. Long-distance travel affects caregivers’ employment and well-being, highlighting the need for support systems that alleviate the burden of transporting cancer survivors.
