Evaluating Risk Factors for Social Isolation of Cancer Patients
This 4-page graduate paper presents a proposal for a study which aims to investigate the perceived factors which contribute to the social isolation of cancer patients. This proposal outlines the investigatorÂ’s background, literature background, methodology, expected results, and implications of the study. Briefly, the proposed study will make use of questionnaires in order to find out the factors contributing to the isolation of a sample group of cancer patients. Patients will be asked about the factors they feel contribute to their isolation. Patients will also be asked to rate their sense of isolation after a number of social events, including family visits, friend visits, visits from other chronically ill patients, doctor and nurse visits, informal chats, and after meetings with therapists or counsellors. Patients will also take part in informal interviews. The data analysis will attempt to find patterns in the factors which contribute to feelings of isolation among cancer patients. The findings will also include recommendations for identifying and assisting cancer patients at risk of isolation.
