Caregivers' Experiences of Nursing Home Restrictions During the COVID-19 Pandemic

Pandemic-related restrictions in nursing homes have undermined the critical role that family and friend caregivers play in enhancing resident quality of life. We examined how family caregiver access restrictions in nursing homes were implemented and how they impacted the mutual well-being of and relationships between residents and their caregivers over time. Between March 2021 and March 2022, 24 'designated caregivers' in Atlantic Canada were interviewed three times. We identified changes in family relationships and activities over time, constricted support networks, the increasing need for advocacy and monitoring, and the generally negative cumulative impacts of restrictions, especially during residents' end-of-life. Subsequent adaptations to access restrictions allowed caregivers to contribute to essential monitoring, care relationships, and advocacy roles. We argue that the role of designated caregivers in nursing homes must be maintained during public health emergencies to ensure resident's supportive family relationships and general well-being.