[The family context in end-of-life is a resource to know and support: some reflections]

The family caregiver role is a vital element of home-based patient care. At home, the achievement of the care plan may depend on the physician's relationship with the patient's caregiving network. Caregivers often tolerate an incalculable emotional burden for their work. Although many enjoy a profound sense of benefit and get deep satisfaction in this role, sadness, guilt, anger, resentment, and a sense of inadequacy are also common and understandable reactions. Exhaustion, financial strain, disrupted usual activities, and continuous caregiving contribute to significant mental health morbidity, including anxiety and depression. Early recognition of caregiver distress, help to secure a trusting partnership between the physician and the patient-caregiver unit at the end of life. This paper give some suggestion coming from a decade of support to families during the end stage.