Identifying indicators of well-being for caregivers of children with disabilities

This study identified key indicators of well-being for caregivers of children with disabilities, Thirty-nine caregivers completed life satisfaction and psychological well-being (WB) measures, and qualitative interviews. Data analysis included descriptive statistics of WB measures and categorical analysis of qualitative data. Data triangulation was achieved by importing theoretically derived codes for initial qualitative coding and quantitizing qualitative categories. Core indicators focused on positive family functioning and a reasonable family lifestyle, caregiver's personal growth and capacity to manage life demands, and the importance of daily balance. Study limitations included no standardized assessments of the child with disabilities' functioning, and the inclusion of caregivers with a range of years of experience. Findings suggest therapists need to attend to how interventions foster or impede positive family functioning and assist caregivers in balancing daily occupations to support capacity to caregiving. Future research should examine how well-being varies over time as caregivers adapt from initial and later caregiving.