Respite for caregivers: an evaluation study

This evaluation study measured the effect of respite on family caregivers of the elderly. The specific aims were: (a) to learn the effect of respite on the evaluation variables of caregiver quality of life, mood, and response to caregiving; (b) to learn relations between the demographic variables and the evaluation variables; and (c) to examine respite to identify benefits other than those being directly measured. Subjects were 130 caregivers, with 6- and 12-month data on a small subsample of the 130. Interviews with caregivers and satisfaction surveys supported respite as an effective intervention. Quantitative analysis showed that none of the evaluation variables changed statistically. The caregiver mood variable evidenced positive changes; other variables changed negatively. Research issues, such as the short time subjects were in the respite program and the lack of sensitive measurement tools, are discussed. Clinical implications for community health nurses are also discussed.