Barriers and facilitators to informal caregiving in Rhode Island: A qualitative study

Informal caregivers are instrumental in supporting the activities of older adults; however, caregiving can negatively impact caregivers' health. This qualitative study explored the experiences, support, and unmet needs of informal caregivers of older adults (n = 12) in Rhode Island. Interviews were audio recorded, transcribed and analyzed through a thematic analysis approach. Identified themes were categorized into three domains: 1) Health Services Challenges for Care Recipients, 2) Negative Impact on Caregivers, and 3) Caregiver Coping Strategies and Challenges. Results indicate that informal caregivers often struggled to access health services and experienced significant disruptions in their lives, ultimately taking a toll on their health and well-being. Finding meaning through caregiving for loved ones and home self-care practices, such as yoga, helped caregivers cope with personal challenges. Findings suggest the need for tailored interventions to better support caregivers throughout the caregiving process.