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A phenomenological study of living with a partner affected with dementia
Jennie Meyer1, Joanne Mc Cullough2, Ingela Berggren3
1Registered Nurse, Department for Home Care, The Community of Tanum, Tanumshede.
Introduction:
Caring for people affected by dementia is a collective effort that involves public health, primary care, and informal care. The third mainly comprises the efforts of spouses.
Aim:
This study aimed to describe spouses' experiences of living with a partner affected with dementia.
Method:
The study has a descriptive phenomenological approach based on a reflective life-world perspective. Seven in-depth interviews were conducted with spouses of persons affected with dementia. The interviews were audiotaped and analysed using the procedures described by Giorgi (2009) .
Findings:
The essence of living with a partner affected by dementia formed a comprehensive theme: from togetherness to loneliness, which along with three descriptive categories-changes in their partner's behaviour, changes in everyday life, and a changed future-describes the phenomenon.
Conclusion:
The theme 'From togetherness to loneliness' reflects the spouses' descriptions of their life-world. Daily life changed gradually in line with their partners' personality, and their role became that of a care provider rather than a spouse. Information and knowledge about dementia should be provided at an early stage. Health care has a major responsibility to meet their needs, thus ensuring that all parties are satisfied.
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