[The dynamic model of care by relatives]

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Health Services Research
• Sociology of Health

Background:

• Care arrangements involve complex factors, with caregiver role acquisition and relief being critical but under-researched transition phases.
• Existing literature lacks precise analysis of the interplay between these phases and the adequacy of care from the caregiver's viewpoint.
• The dynamic model of care by relatives was developed to address these interrelationships.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and present a dynamic model for analyzing care arrangements by relatives.
• To support healthcare professionals in decision-making by highlighting the interaction between role acquisition and relief.
• To provide a framework for understanding the heterogeneity of caregiver experiences.

Main Methods:

• A causal loop diagram was created through group model building involving four university departments.
• Fifty external organizations (e.g., care services, counseling centers) and 18 interviews with caregiving relatives informed the model.
• Computer simulations were used for model analysis and validation against interview data.

Main Results:

• The developed model is represented as a causal diagram with five key elements influencing caregiver experiences.
• These elements include acquiring the caregiver role, exhaustion, and relief derived from external support.
• A practical example demonstrates how professionals can apply the model in real-world scenarios.

Conclusions:

• The model provides ideal typical behavioral patterns for professionals.
• It facilitates the creation of individually tailored and adequate care arrangements.
• The model acknowledges and reflects the heterogeneity of caregiver situations and needs.