[Learning to provide home care]

More and more social policies are directed at community-based care. As a result, a family member, usually a woman, is called upon to become the caregiver of the sick person at home. In the case of a female caregiver who finds herself providing home care to a recently diagnosed cancer patient, major existential problems must be resolved. Without professional training, this woman must assume major responsibilities for the daily needs of her family member. To maintain a certain degree of control, she must learn to deal with her new situation. Facilitating the learning process becomes an important part of the nurse educator's role. By applying the Knowles theory of adult learning, the nurse educator is better able to understand the learning patterns of adults faced with such problems. This model helps develop a better perception of the adult learner, a clearer vision of the learning involved, and a better understanding of the nurse's role as educator. Before providing information, the nurse takes into account the perceptions of the caregiver and focuses on the person herself--thus recognizing her uniqueness. She helps the learner to become aware of her learning needs, to explore her motivations and to share her experiences. Through her attitude, the nurse communicates her intellectual and emotional availability, and encourages the caregiver to rely on and use her expertise. While providing necessary assistance, the nurse educator is instrumental in allowing the caregiver to take control of her own learning.