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Family Dynamics and the Alzheimer's Disease Experience
Nuria Esandi1,2, Mike Nolan3, Navidad Canga-Armayor1,2
1University of Navarra, Pamplona, Spain.
Journal of Family Nursing
|February 10, 2021
Summary
Family dynamics evolve during early Alzheimer's disease (AD). This study identified four patterns of family response, offering insights for targeted early interventions for AD caregivers.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Psychology
- Sociology
Background:
- Alzheimer's disease (AD) significantly impacts family units.
- Understanding early family responses is crucial for effective support.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore and theorize family dynamics in the early stages of Alzheimer's disease.
Main Methods:
- Constructivist grounded theory approach.
- Longitudinal interviews with seven family units (N=22).
- Focus groups with 14 additional caregivers for verification.
Main Results:
- Identified four distinct family dynamic trajectories: maintained close, initially close then conflicting, persistently conflicting, and initially conflicting then closer.
- Key influencing factors included prior relationships, care motivation, organization, communication, and future vision.
Conclusions:
- Family dynamics are not static and evolve over time in response to early Alzheimer's disease.
- The developed theory can guide the creation of tailored early interventions for families navigating AD.
Keywords:
Alzheimer’s diseasefamily dynamicsfamily nursingfamily-oriented care approachgrounded theoryMore Related Videos
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