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Updated: Jul 18, 2026

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Development of a Virtual Reality Assessment of Everyday Living Skills
Published on: April 23, 2014
Evaluation of a weekend respite program for persons with Alzheimer disease
1School of Nursing, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada. perry@nursing.ubc.ca
Summary
Family caregivers
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Dementia Care
- Caregiver Support
Background:
- Family caregivers often face unmet needs.
- Respite programs are underutilized despite these needs.
- Understanding caregiver experiences with respite is crucial.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore family caregivers' experiences with a pilot respite program.
- To understand factors influencing the use of respite care for individuals with Alzheimer disease (AD) or related dementias.
Main Methods:
- A goal-free evaluation approach was used.
- 18 family caregivers were interviewed about their experience with a pilot weekend respite program.
- Content analysis was performed on interview data.
Main Results:
- Caregiver experiences fell into three categories: self-care, relief, and family member safety/comfort.
- Respite was linked to both caregiver relief and the safety/comfort of the person with dementia.
- Perceived costs and benefits influenced the frequency of program use.
Conclusions:
- Family caregivers' perceptions of respite costs and benefits are key to program utilization.
- Ensuring the safety and comfort of the care recipient is vital for caregiver respite.
- Further research is needed to optimize respite program accessibility and effectiveness.
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