Objective.

To describe and compare the home care competency and the burden of family caregivers of children with cancer, with that of family caregivers of adults with cancer.

Method.

Quantitative, exploratory and comparative study with 160 family caregivers of people with cancer in active treatment in two oncology care centers in Bogotá -Colombia (2016), who once characterized answered the competence instrument for home care (CUIDAR) and the care burden scale.

Results.

The characteristics of family caregivers of children and adults with cancer have similarities in gender, occupation, educational level and available assistance. Child caregivers experience a greater care burden in comparison with those of adults with cancer, and have a greater competence for home care and in the dimensions of knowledge, enjoyment and anticipation.

Conclusions.

It is necessary to focus even more the support to family caregivers, according to the receiver of care. Programs to strengthen home care competency and reduce the burden are necessary to meet and respond to the needs of family caregivers of people with cancer.

Financing.

Nursing School. National university of Colombia.

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