Supportive programs FOCUS+ and iFOCUS — DIAdIC platform

DIAdIC is an international research project taking place in six European countries. It aims to improve outcomes for people affected by cancer. Specifically it will test whether patients and informal caregivers benefit by having dedicated time to think about, and talk about, their relationship and their needs together. The DIAdIC team developed and tested two supportive programs for people with cancer and their informal caregivers. Both programs focus on helping them to cope with cancer together. The programs are called FOCUS+ and iFOCUS. The DIAdIC study is no longer recruiting people to take part, but keep reading if you would like to learn more about the programs.

Both programs address the same five core themes:

1. Supporting Family involvement

2. Supporting Outlook and meaning

3. Increasing Coping effectiveness

4. Reducing Uncertainty

5. Symptom management

FOCUS+

FOCUS+ is a program that takes place in the home of the patient and/or informal caregiver and consists of three sessions: two home visits and one telephone or video session. The three sessions are delivered by a trained nurse over a period of 12 weeks.

All sessions are tailored by the nurse to the needs of the patient and their informal caregivers. This includes giving information specific to their needs, and spending more time on certain themes that are particularly relevant to them. At the start of the program the participants receives the FOCUS+ guide, a printed book that covers all the topics that can be addressed during the sessions, including helpful tips and exercises. It is designed to be a reference that the dyad (the patient and the informal caregiver together) can consult before, during and after each session. You can download the complete guide via the button below.

Preview the FOCUS+ guide

iFOCUS

iFOCUS is an online self-directed version of the same program that can be accessed via a computer, tablet or smartphone. The program consists of four sessions which the patient and informal caregiver complete together over a period of 12 weeks. The program tailors its information and content to the specific needs of the participants. It creates the opportunity for them to access information relevant to their needs, and to discuss each of the topics described above. iFOCUS also offers information, leaflets and links to helpful resources.

Test the iFOCUS program