Health promotion strategies for spousal caregivers of chronically ill elders

Although there is a growing body of literature on family member caregivers of chronically ill elders, there is no systematic body of knowledge for promoting health in this vulnerable population. Spousal caregivers are especially vulnerable because of the relentless demands of caregiving combined with the grief process associated with changes in role expectations. To date, nursing interventions have focused more on a crisis orientation. This article focuses on the state of the science of spousal caregiving, identifies gaps in our current knowledge, and suggests possible health promotion strategies for further exploration.