INTEGRATIVE APPROACHES IN HOME HOSPICE CARE FOR ADVANCED CANCER PATIENTS: LESSONS FOR ATHLETE RECOVERY AND FITNESS PROGRAMS

Abstract

Objective: To investigate the effectiveness of home hospice care interventions in advanced cancer patients and their potential applications in enhancing recovery and maintaining fitness in athletes. Methods: This study involved 100 late-stage cancer patients from January 2021 to May 2022, who were randomly assigned to either a control group (n=50) or an observation group (n=50) using a random number table method. The control group received standard care, whereas the observation group was provided with home-based tranquil care. Both groups underwent continuous care for one month. Outcomes measured included anxiety scale (SAS) and depression scale (SDS) scores; numerical rating scale (NRS) and Edmonton Symptom Assessment Scale (ESAS) scores; the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer's Quality of Life Core Scale (EORTC QLQ-C30) scores; and patient satisfaction with care. Results: Post-intervention, both groups exhibited significant reductions in SAS and SDS scores, with the observation group showing notably lower scores than the control group (P<0.05). Similarly, reductions in NRS and ESAS scores were more pronounced in the observation group (P<0.05). The EORTC QLQ-C30 scores improved significantly in both groups after care, with the observation group scoring higher than the control group (P<0.05). Satisfaction with nursing care was significantly higher in the observation group (94.00%) compared to the control group (78.00%) (P<0.05). Conclusion: Home-based hospice care significantly enhances the psychological state, alleviates clinical symptoms, and improves the quality of life and satisfaction with nursing in advanced cancer patients. These findings suggest potential benefits in adopting similar care strategies for athlete recovery and fitness maintenance, emphasizing holistic and personalized care approaches.