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Family issues in home-based care.
1School of Nursing, Deakin University, Victoria, Australia. swellard@deakin.edu.au
International Journal of Nursing Practice
|April 19, 2000
Summary
Home-based care for chronic illnesses, including dialysis, is rising in Australia due to technology and cost. Families face challenges like social isolation and inadequate healthcare support.
Area of Science:
- Healthcare Management
- Chronic Illness Care
- Technological Integration in Medicine
Background:
- Increasing trend of home-based care for chronically ill patients in Australia.
- Drivers for this shift include technological advancements and economic pressures.
- Home-based dialysis represents a significant area of this care model.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the evolution of home-based care, specifically home-based dialysis.
- To identify challenges faced by families managing chronic illness at home.
- To understand the practical implications of shifting care from institutional to domestic settings.
Main Methods:
- Utilized a case-study approach to investigate home-based care development.
- Focused on families involved in home care for the chronically ill.
- Qualitative exploration of lived experiences within the home care context.
Main Results:
- Identified key issues including the establishment of home-based clinics.
- Highlighted the significant role and burden often placed on women.
- Documented experiences of social isolation among patients and caregivers.
- Noted a lack of effective support from general practitioners and health services.
Conclusions:
- The shift to home-based care presents multifaceted challenges for families.
- Support systems, particularly from healthcare professionals, need enhancement.
- Addressing social isolation and caregiver burden is crucial for sustainable home care.