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Lay Caregivers' Experiences With Caring for Persons With Dementia: A Phenomenological Study
Caring for persons with dementia (PWD) at home is stressful for lay caregivers. This study explored their experiences, highlighting feelings of uncertainty, loneliness, and frustration, and the need for support services like palliative care.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Dementia Care
- Qualitative Research
Background:
- Biomedical advances enable longer lifespans for older adults, including those with dementia.
- Most individuals with dementia live at home, relying on lay caregivers.
- Caregiving for persons with dementia (PWD) is a recognized stressful role.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe the lived experiences of lay caregivers caring for PWD.
- To explore caregivers' experiences with palliative care.
- To identify key themes and challenges faced by dementia caregivers.
Main Methods:
- Qualitative phenomenological study design.
- Individual recorded interviews with a community sample of 11 lay caregivers.
- Thematic analysis of interview data using van Manen's approach.
Main Results:
- Caregivers reported themes of uncertainty, loneliness, and frustration.
- A dynamic range of feelings were associated with the caregiving experience.
- Most caregivers were older females (mean age 71).
Conclusions:
- Healthcare professionals should address caregivers' emotional experiences.
- Referrals to supportive services, including palliative care, are crucial.
- Understanding caregiver experiences can improve support systems for dementia care at home.
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