Overload, Burden and Strategies of Caregivers in Palliative Contexts: A Narrative Review

Aizpurua-Juaristi A, Cabezas-Martin E, Comeron-Pena B, Encinas-Diaz N, Renco LA and Canedo E

Published on: 2025-06-13

Abstract

Background: Palliative care relies heavily on both formal and informal caregivers, whose roles are essential yet often underappreciated. However, the high emotional, physical, and psychological toll on caregivers contributes to significant overload and burnout.

Aim: This review aims to identify and analyse evidence-based nursing interventions that address caregiver overload, with attention to both formal and informal contexts that alleviate caregiver burden and promote well-being.

Methods: A scoping review methodology guided by the PCC model was conducted in October 2024 in CINAHL, PubMed, and Cochrane Library. Articles in English and Spanish, from 2014 to 2024, were included.

Results: Twenty-six articles focusing on caregiver burden, nursing interventions, and palliative care were included. Nursing interventions such as psycho educational programmes, active listening, stress management training, expressive writing, and mindfulness therapy were founded. Tools like the Zarit Burden Interview and Maslach Burnout Inventory were widely used to assess caregiver distress.

Conclusion: Caregiver burden in palliative settings requires a multidimensional response. Formal caregivers, workplace improvements and ongoing training are key. For informal caregivers, structured psycho educational support, financial aid, and accessible resources are vital. Nursing professionals are uniquely positioned to provide evidence-based, empathic care strategies that benefit both caregivers and patients.