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Cafarella P, Effing T, Chur-Hansen A. Identifying the active content of interventions targeting the psychological well-being of carers of people with motor neuron disease: A systematic review. Palliat Support Care 2024:1-20. [PMID: 38826066 DOI: 10.1017/s1478951524000877] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/04/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The primary aim of this research was to use a taxonomy of behavior change techniques (BCTTv1) to identify, map, and describe the active components of intervention and comparator groups in studies evaluating the psychological well-being (PWB) of motor neuron disease (MND) carers. Secondary aims were to (a) identify absent active ingredients and (b) explore whether variability in the effectiveness of interventions targeting the PWB of MND carers could be better explained through improved characterization of the active content of these interventions. METHODS Mixed-methods systematic review based on Joanna Briggs Institute methodology for quantitative, qualitative, and mixed-methods reviews and Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. Content-coding of interventions targeting the PWB of MND carers using BCTTv1 was conducted. RESULTS Sixteen manuscripts describing 14 studies were included. Forty-one of the possible 93 behavior change techniques (BCTs, 44%) were identified as active ingredients, while 52 BCTs (56%) were absent. BCTs were identified in all 14 intervention groups and 4 control groups. Four of the 16 overall BCTTv1 categories were absent. Eleven of the 14 studies demonstrated PWB benefits from their interventions. SIGNIFICANCE OF RESULTS Identified and absent BCTs and BCTTv1 categories were mapped for all study groups, enabling a transparent characterization of active intervention content associated with positive PWB outcomes. Directions to improve interventions in this nascent field of research included the investigation of relevant untested BCTs in this population and the management of reporting and methodological quality issues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul Cafarella
- School of Psychology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
- Department of Respiratory Sleep Medicine and Ventilation, Flinders Medical Centre, Southern Adelaide Local Health Network, Bedford Park, SA, Australia
- College of Nursing and Health Sciences, Flinders University of South Australia, Bedford Park, SA, Australia
- College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders University of South Australia, Bedford Park, SA, Australia
| | - Tanja Effing
- School of Psychology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
- College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders University of South Australia, Bedford Park, SA, Australia
| | - Anna Chur-Hansen
- School of Psychology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
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Volpato E, Banfi P, Poletti V, Pagnini F. Living beyond loss: a qualitative investigation of caregivers' experiences after the death of their relatives with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Amyotroph Lateral Scler Frontotemporal Degener 2024; 25:75-87. [PMID: 37674380 DOI: 10.1080/21678421.2023.2255628] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2023] [Accepted: 09/01/2023] [Indexed: 09/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Caregivers of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) patients experience varying psychological responses following the patient's death, including sadness, loneliness, guilt, and a loss of purpose. OBJECTIVES This research aims to investigate the caregiver journey experienced from the time of diagnosis to the loss of a care recipient, with a specific focus on understanding the factors that contribute to improved coping with bereavement. METHODS The present study used the Interpretative Phenomenological Approach (IPA) to qualitatively explore the accounts of 41 Italian bereaved caregivers of people affected by ALS (Mean Age = 59.78; Female: 60.98%; Male: 39.02%). RESULTS Results revealed 5 overarching themes representing 5 macro areas that emerged from the analysis of the interviews ("Caregiver's perception of his/her life", "Caregiver's feelings", "Caregiver's life after patient's death", "Caregiver's disease description", "Caregiver's help resources"), these were further defined based on 12 main themes, which were, in turn, articulated into 30 subthemes. The transition from life before ALS ("a peaceful landscape") to caregiver life (compared to the color "black") was a "shock", during which caregivers had to change their needs. However, life after the person living with ALS' death was both characterized by a sense of "re-birth" and "emptiness", and a general need for "psychological assistance" and "social support". CONCLUSIONS Results emphasize the need to improve the psychological support offered to caregivers of person living with ALS after the patient's death, tailoring it to the specificity of the condition, to meet their emotional needs, reduce isolation and help them cope with practical challenges and plans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eleonora Volpato
- Department of Psychology, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Milan, Italy and
- Heart-Respiratory Rehabilitation Unit, IRCCS Fondazione Don Carlo Gnocchi, Milan, Italy
| | - Paolo Banfi
- Heart-Respiratory Rehabilitation Unit, IRCCS Fondazione Don Carlo Gnocchi, Milan, Italy
| | - Valentina Poletti
- Department of Psychology, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Milan, Italy and
- Heart-Respiratory Rehabilitation Unit, IRCCS Fondazione Don Carlo Gnocchi, Milan, Italy
| | - Francesco Pagnini
- Department of Psychology, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Milan, Italy and
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Young HM, Kilaberia TR, Whitney R, Link BM, Bell JF, Tonkikh O, Famula J, Oskarsson B. Needs of persons living with ALS at home and their family caregivers: A scoping review. Muscle Nerve 2023; 68:240-249. [PMID: 37248728 DOI: 10.1002/mus.27849] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2023] [Revised: 05/03/2023] [Accepted: 05/04/2023] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION/AIMS Most persons with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) live at home with support of family caregivers, with escalating complexity of care over the trajectory of the disease requiring resources and support to mitigate negative physical, social, and emotional outcomes. METHODS This scoping review identifies the home health/home care needs of persons with ALS and their caregivers as a basis for creating a home health medical standard. We used the PRISMA Extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR) to examine studies describing home care needs published between 2011 and 2021. RESULTS Our search yielded 481 articles, of which 44 were included with a total of 3592 (9-273) participants. Most studies used a cross-sectional design and 20 (45%) were rated as high quality. We grouped the needs identified as emotional/psychological, assistive devices and technology, information and education, and human resources and professional services. Most studies demonstrated persistent unmet needs and that available interventions were helpful while needs generally were not met proactively, despite the predictable trajectory. DISCUSSION This review describes biopsychosocial and equipment interventions over the trajectory of ALS with implications for anticipatory planning by clinicians, as well as policy for coverage of necessary services and supports. Interdisciplinary expert teams could develop consensus around needs across the trajectory and recommended services and supports. To make knowledge more accessible, encourage availability of services, and clarify the need for coverage of services, we aim to develop an expert consensus-based ALS home health medical standard guidance document in collaboration with the American Association of Neuromuscular and Electrodiagnostic Medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heather M Young
- Family Caregiving Institute, Betty Irene Moore School of Nursing, University of California Davis, Sacramento, California, USA
| | - Tina R Kilaberia
- Silver School of Social Work, New York University, New York, New York, USA
| | - Robin Whitney
- Valley Foundation School of Nursing, San Jose State University, San Jose, California, USA
| | - Benjamin M Link
- Family Caregiving Institute, Betty Irene Moore School of Nursing, University of California Davis, Sacramento, California, USA
| | - Janice F Bell
- Family Caregiving Institute, Betty Irene Moore School of Nursing, University of California Davis, Sacramento, California, USA
| | - Orly Tonkikh
- Family Caregiving Institute, Betty Irene Moore School of Nursing, University of California Davis, Sacramento, California, USA
| | - Jessica Famula
- Family Caregiving Institute, Betty Irene Moore School of Nursing, University of California Davis, Sacramento, California, USA
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Conroy É, Kennedy P, Heverin M, Hardiman O, Galvin M. Care, burden and self-described positive aspects of caring in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: an exploratory, longitudinal, mixed-methods study. BMJ Open 2023; 13:e064254. [PMID: 36669844 PMCID: PMC9872468 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2022-064254] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2022] [Accepted: 11/14/2022] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To explore factors associated with care burden and the self-described positive aspects of caring for a person living with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) over time. DESIGN Exploratory longitudinal mixed-methods study. SETTING A national multidisciplinary tertiary clinic in Dublin, Ireland. PARTICIPANTS Participants were informal caregivers of people living with ALS (plwALS) attending the national ALS/motor neuron disease Clinic Dublin. This study focuses on informal caregivers who completed five consecutive interviews (n = 17) as part of a larger multisite study, over the course of 2.5 years. Participants were over the age of 18. Formal paid caregivers were not included. OUTCOME MEASURES Data were collected on demographic and well-being measures and an open-ended question asked about positive aspects of caregiving. Relevant statistical analysis was carried out on quantitative data and qualitative data were analysed thematically. RESULTS The caregivers in this study were predominantly female and spouse/partners of the plwALS. Hours of care provided and self-assessed burden increased substantially over time, psychological distress reached clinical significance and quality of life remained relatively stable. Positive aspects identified were thematised as meaning in life and personal satisfaction and varied in relative frequency across phases of the caregiving trajectory. CONCLUSIONS The co-occurrence of negative and positive factors influences the experiences of informal caregivers in ALS. It is important to explore and acknowledge positive aspects, how they develop and are sustained in order to inform supportive services. The cyclical adaptation identified in this study provides evidence for time sensitive targeted supports.
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Affiliation(s)
- Éilís Conroy
- Academic Unit of Neurology, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Polly Kennedy
- Academic Unit of Neurology, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Mark Heverin
- Academic Unit of Neurology, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Orla Hardiman
- Academic Unit of Neurology, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
- Department of Neurology, Beaumont Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Miriam Galvin
- Academic Unit of Neurology, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
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Care partner support. HANDBOOK OF CLINICAL NEUROLOGY 2023; 191:203-219. [PMID: 36599509 DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-12-824535-4.00014-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Palliative care focuses on improving the quality of life of people living with serious illness and their family carers. However despite policy, clinical, and research evidence underpinning the importance of a family approach to care, as well as justification for early palliative care integration, systemic inadequacies have impeded the quality of family support. This chapter provides an overview of common concepts in caregiving, a framework through which carer well-being can be understood, and an overview of disease specific considerations for care partners. There are several main needs that are relevant to care partners across disease settings include (1) information and guidance to prepare them for the role; (2) how to alleviate discomfort for the person with illness; (3) enhancing skills for the physical tasks of the role; (4) strategies for managing the psychological, and financial implications of the care partner role; and (5) assistance in advance care planning and on preparing for the care recipient's death. Care partner coping is a result of complex interactions between stressors and mediators as they navigate chronic illness, but palliative providers with an understanding of these factors are well-positioned to address carer risk factors and provide appropriate support.
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Tibell LH, Alvariza A, Kreicbergs U, Wallin V, Steineck G, Holm M. Web-based support for spouses of patients with life-threatening illness cared for in specialized home care - A feasibility study. Palliat Support Care 2022:1-9. [PMID: 36537025 DOI: 10.1017/s1478951522001602] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Psychoeducational interventions for family caregivers have shown to be effective but not possible for all caregivers to attend; thus, web-based interventions may be a complement. This study aimed to evaluate feasibility of a web-based intervention, "narstaende.se," from the perspective of spouses of patients receiving specialized home care. METHODS A website was developed, containing videos with conversations between health-care professionals and family caregivers (actors), informative texts, links to further information, and a chat forum. The aim of the website is to provide support and promote preparedness for caregiving and death, and the content is theoretically and empirically grounded. The study had a descriptive cross-sectional design. Altogether, 26 spouses answered a questionnaire, before accessing the website, and 4 weeks after this, 12 spouses were interviewed. Descriptive statistics and qualitative content analysis were used. RESULTS Spouses experienced the website as being easy to use, welcoming, and with relevant content. Participating spouses would recommend "narstaende.se" to others in similar situations, and the majority found the website introduced timely. Videos seemed easily accessible and were most used, contributing to a feeling of recognition and sharing the situation. The online format was perceived as flexible, but still not all spouses visited the website, stating the desire for support in real life. SIGNIFICANCE OF RESULTS A web-based intervention can be feasible for spouses in specialized home care; however, the digital format is not suitable for everyone. Further research is needed to determine the website's potential to provide support and increase preparedness for family caregivers in general.
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Affiliation(s)
- Louise Häger Tibell
- The Department of Health Care Science/Palliative Research Centre, Marie Cederschiöld University, Stockholm, Sweden
- Theme Cancer, BES: Breast-Endocrine Tumours and Sarcoma, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Anette Alvariza
- The Department of Health Care Science/Palliative Research Centre, Marie Cederschiöld University, Stockholm, Sweden
- Stockholms Sjukhem, Research and Development Unit/Palliative Care, Stockholms Sjukhem Foundation, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Ulrika Kreicbergs
- The Department of Health Care Science/Palliative Research Centre, Marie Cederschiöld University, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Viktoria Wallin
- The Department of Health Care Science/Palliative Research Centre, Marie Cederschiöld University, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Gunnar Steineck
- Department of Clinical Cancer Epidemiology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Division of Clinical Cancer Epidemiology, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Maja Holm
- The Department of Health Care Science/Palliative Research Centre, Marie Cederschiöld University, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Nursing Science, Sophiahemmet University, Stockholm, Sweden
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Poppe C, Verwey M, Wangmo T. "Walking a tightrope": A grounded theory approach to informal caregiving for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. HEALTH & SOCIAL CARE IN THE COMMUNITY 2022; 30:e1935-e1947. [PMID: 34719073 PMCID: PMC9545073 DOI: 10.1111/hsc.13625] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2021] [Revised: 10/06/2021] [Accepted: 10/18/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Informal caregivers, mainly family members and friends, provide supportive and palliative care for people with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) during their terminal disease course. Informal caregiving for people with ALS continues towards palliative care and end-of-life care with the progression of the disease. In this study, we provide a theoretical understanding of informal caregiving in ALS utilising 23 semi-structured interviews conducted with informal caregivers of people with ALS (pwALS) in Switzerland. Due to the expected death of the care recipient, our grounded theory approach outlines informal caregivers' caregiving work as an effort to secure a balance amongst different caregiving activities, which feed into the final stage of providing palliative care. Overall, our theoretical understanding of ALS informal caregiving work encompasses the core category 'holding the balance' and four secondary categories: 'Organising support', 'being present', 'managing everyday life' and 'keeping up with ALS'. The core category of holding the balance underlines the significance of ensuring care and normalcy even as disease progresses and until the end of life. For the informal caregivers, this balancing act is the key element of care provision to pwALS and therefore guides decisions surrounding caregiving. On this understanding, those caregivers that succeed in holding the balance can provide care at home until death. The balance is heavily influenced by contextual factors of caregiving, for example relating to personal characteristics of the caregiver, or activities of caregiving where the goal is to ensure the quality of life of the pwALS. As there is a heterogeneity of speed and subtype of progression of ALS, our work accounts for multiple caregiving trajectories.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Martine Verwey
- Patient Association ALS Patients ConnectedBilthovenThe Netherlands
| | - Tenzin Wangmo
- Institute for Biomedical EthicsUniversity of BaselBaselSwitzerland
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Paynter C, Mathers S, Gregory H, Vogel AP, Cruice M. Using the Concept of Health Literacy to Understand How People Living with Motor Neurone Disease and Carers Engage in Healthcare: A Longitudinal Qualitative Study. Healthcare (Basel) 2022; 10:healthcare10081371. [PMID: 35893192 PMCID: PMC9330690 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare10081371] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2022] [Revised: 07/18/2022] [Accepted: 07/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The growing body of information-seeking and decision-making literature in motor neurone disease (MND) has not yet explored the impact of health literacy. Health literacy relates to the skills people have to access, understand, and use health information and is influenced by motivation to engage with healthcare. We aimed to better understand how people affected by MND engage in healthcare by examining longitudinal interview data using the construct of health literacy. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 19 persons living with MND and 15 carers recruited from a specialist MND clinic using maximum variation sampling. Transcripts were deductively coded using a framework of health literacy behaviours. The analysis used a matrix-based approach for thematic analysis of longitudinal data. People living with MND and carers sought nuanced information dependent on their priorities and attitudes. Information uptake was influenced by perceived relevancy and changed over time. Time allowed opportunity to reflect on and understand the significance of information provided. The findings indicate that persons living with MND and carers benefit when information and consultations are adapted to meet their communication needs. The results highlight the potential benefits of gaining an early understanding of and accommodating the communication needs, personal preferences, and emotional readiness for information for persons living with MND and their carers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Camille Paynter
- Department of Audiology and Speech Pathology, University of Melbourne, 550 Swanston Street, Melbourne, VIC 3010, Australia;
- Correspondence:
| | - Susan Mathers
- Calvary Health Care Bethlehem, 152 Como Parade West, Parkdale, VIC 3195, Australia; (S.M.); (H.G.)
- School of Clinical Sciences, Monash University, 246 Clayton Road, Clayton, VIC 3168, Australia
| | - Heidi Gregory
- Calvary Health Care Bethlehem, 152 Como Parade West, Parkdale, VIC 3195, Australia; (S.M.); (H.G.)
- Eastern Health Clinical School, Monash University, 5 Arnold Street, Box Hill, VIC 3128, Australia
| | - Adam P. Vogel
- Department of Audiology and Speech Pathology, University of Melbourne, 550 Swanston Street, Melbourne, VIC 3010, Australia;
- Redenlab, 585 Little Collins Street, Melbourne, VIC 3000, Australia
| | - Madeline Cruice
- School of Health Sciences, City, University of London, Northamptom Square, London EC1V 0HB, UK;
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Cafarella P, Effing T, Chur-Hansen A. Interventions targeting psychological well-being for motor neuron disease carers: A systematic review. Palliat Support Care 2022; 21:1-17. [PMID: 35287783 DOI: 10.1017/s1478951522000311] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This systematic review considers interventions designed to improve the psychological well-being (PWB) of carers of people with motor neuron disease (MND) using quantitative, qualitative, or mixed-methods studies, and aimed to (1) summarize current research, (2) assess the quality of evidence, and (3) evaluate the effectiveness of interventions. METHOD Mixed-methods systematic review (MMSR) was conducted based on Joanna Briggs Institute methodology for quantitative, qualitative, and mixed-methods reviews and Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. RESULTS Thirteen papers met the inclusion criteria, including 12 studies (six mixed-methods, four quantitative, and two qualitative). Four studies described randomized controlled trials, seven detailed uncontrolled longitudinal studies with a single treatment group and a pre-post design, and one was an observational survey. Critical appraisal of the studies revealed a wide range of weaknesses in the quantitative and/or qualitative methodologies. Due to the heterogeneity of interventions, outcomes, and measurements, a narrative and convergent approach to data synthesis was employed. While a minority of studies demonstrated some benefits to hedonic and eudaimonic aspects of PWB, the interpretability of these data was limited by methodological problems. SIGNIFICANCE OF RESULTS This MMSR highlighted a paucity of quality research regarding interventions for the PWB of MND carers. Although some benefits to PWB were demonstrated, most studies suffered from substantial methodological problems, rendering the overall evidence base low. High-quality and carefully designed studies are a priority to enable effective development and testing of much-needed interventions targeting the PWB for MND carers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul Cafarella
- School of Psychology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Flinders Medical Centre, Southern Adelaide Local Health Network, South Australia, Australia
- College of Nursing and Health Sciences, Flinders University of South Australia, Adelaide, Australia
- College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders University of South Australia, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Tanja Effing
- School of Psychology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
- College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders University of South Australia, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Anna Chur-Hansen
- School of Psychology, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
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Poppe C, Schweikert K, Krones T, Wangmo T. Supportive needs of informal caregivers of people with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis in Switzerland: a qualitative study. Palliat Care Soc Pract 2022; 16:26323524221077700. [PMID: 35252864 PMCID: PMC8891867 DOI: 10.1177/26323524221077700] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2021] [Accepted: 01/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective: This study explores the supportive needs of informal caregivers of people with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) in Switzerland. Method: We conducted semi-structured interviews with nine informal caregivers currently providing care to a person with ALS, 14 bereaved informal caregivers, and 13 healthcare professionals. Interviews were recorded on digital audio and analysed using an inductive thematic analysis within a realist framework. Result: Informal caregivers discussed five themes of support needs relating to being overburdened by administrative demand, in contact with healthcare providers, home support, especially during the terminal phase, and having or lacking social support. Healthcare professionals discussed three themes of support needs of informal caregivers which related to the general institutional support for informal caregivers, their own work as caring for informal caregivers, and the challenges in healthcare for families with ALS they encountered. Significance of results: Informal caregiving for people with ALS can be demanding. This study provides evidence for improvements in supporting informal caregivers. It shows administrative needs of informal caregivers, stresses their needs regarding advance care planning early in the context of ALS, and underlines the importance of social support, be it in peer-groups or community care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher Poppe
- Institute for Biomedical Ethics, University of Basel, Bernoullistr. 28, 4056 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Kathi Schweikert
- REHAB Basel, Basel, Switzerland; University Hospital of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Tanja Krones
- Clinical Ethics, University Hospital of Zürich, Zürich, Switzerland
- Institute of Biomedical Ethics and History of Medicine, University of Zürich, Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Tenzin Wangmo
- Institute for Biomedical Ethics, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
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Marco DJT, Thomas K, Ivynian S, Wilding H, Parker D, Tieman J, Hudson P. Family carer needs in advanced disease: systematic review of reviews. BMJ Support Palliat Care 2022; 12:132-141. [PMID: 34996834 DOI: 10.1136/bmjspcare-2021-003299] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2021] [Accepted: 11/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Family carers are vital in the management and delivery of home-based palliative care. Decision-makers need to know what the most commonly expressed unmet needs of family carers are to target available support services. AIM To identify the most commonly expressed needs of family carers of people with an advanced disease, assess the quality of current evidence, and set an agenda for future research and clinical practice. DESIGN A systematic review of reviews, prospectively registered on PROSPERO. Study quality was assessed using the Joanna Briggs Institute critical appraisal checklist for systematic reviews and research syntheses. DATA SOURCES MEDLINE, Embase, Emcare, PsycINFO, CINAHL, Informit and Cochrane Library were searched for reviews about the needs of carers looking after patients with advanced disease from 2010 to 2020. RESULTS Findings from 21 reviews identified emotional support, disease-specific knowledge, carer role responsibilities, self-care and general practical support as the most commonly expressed needs expressed by family carers. Additionally, access to professional services, formal education opportunities and communication with health professionals were identified as caregivers' preferred ways of having these needs met. Extraction of carer-specific needs was challenging at times as results were often combined with patient results in reviews. CONCLUSION Practical difficulties exist in effectively resourcing services to meet the needs of family carers. Information regarding the most commonly expressed needs shared by caregivers and their preferred delivery source can provide an opportunity to focus available support services to achieve the highest possible impact for carers of patients with advanced disease. PROSPERO REGISTRATION NUMBER CRD42018088678.
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Affiliation(s)
- David John-Tom Marco
- Centre for Palliative Care, St Vincent's Hospital Melbourne Pty Ltd, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia .,Medicine, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Kristina Thomas
- Centre for Palliative Care, St Vincent's Hospital Melbourne Pty Ltd, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Serra Ivynian
- Faculty of Health, University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Helen Wilding
- Library Service, St Vincent's Hospital Melbourne Pty Ltd, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Deborah Parker
- Faculty of Health, University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Jennifer Tieman
- College of Nursing and Health Sciences, Flinders University, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Peter Hudson
- Centre for Palliative Care, St Vincent's Hospital Melbourne Pty Ltd, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,Nursing, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
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Caregivers' View of Socio-Medical Care in the Terminal Phase of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis-How Can We Improve Holistic Care in ALS? J Clin Med 2022; 11:jcm11010254. [PMID: 35011995 PMCID: PMC8745628 DOI: 10.3390/jcm11010254] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2021] [Revised: 12/28/2021] [Accepted: 12/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Multidimensional socio-medical care with an early integration of palliative principles is strongly recommended in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), but provided inconsistently. We conducted telephone interviews with 49 former caregivers of deceased ALS patients to examine their experience of care in the terminal phase including caregiver burden. Patients who received specialized palliative care (45% of patients) were more likely to die at home (p = 0.004) and without burdening symptoms (p = 0.021). The majority of caregivers (86%) reported deficits in socio-medical care. Most frequently mentioned were problems receiving medical aids (45%) and a lack of caregiver support (35%). A higher level of deficits experienced by caregivers was associated with negative health outcomes on the side of the caregivers (reported by 57% of them; p = 0.002) and stronger caregiver burden (p = 0.004). To provide good quality of dying to patients and reduce the burden on caregivers, multidimensional—including palliative—care in ALS urgently needs to be strengthened in the healthcare structures.
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Poppe C, Iseli LM, Verwey M, Wangmo T. Bereavement and Support Experiences of Informal Caregivers of Persons with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis: A Qualitative Study. JOURNAL OF SOCIAL WORK IN END-OF-LIFE & PALLIATIVE CARE 2022; 18:63-79. [PMID: 34605373 DOI: 10.1080/15524256.2021.1976352] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Informal caregivers provide the major part of care for persons with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), a terminal neurodegenerative disease. Apart from providing care, informal caregivers are themselves in need of support to fulfill the task of daily caregiving and to reduce their burden of caregiving. This need for support does not end with the death of the person cared for. In this study, we explore the themes of bereavement and support experience of informal caregivers of persons with ALS from interviews conducted with bereaved informal caregivers (n = 14) in Switzerland. Three key themes were salient in our data: Reacting to bereavement, finding support, and adjusting to life without the person with ALS. These themes are contrasted with themes from interviews (n = 11) with healthcare professionals (nurses, therapists, physicians) who care for patients and families with ALS. The themes described were offering support and identifying gaps in the support. We discuss support after bereavement for informal caregivers of persons with ALS in the established public health model of bereavement support. Bereavement support needs to be proactive from healthcare professionals; however, it requires the goodness of fit to address those in need and not those who are adequately supported by informal sources of support.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher Poppe
- Institute for Biomedical Ethics, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Luzia M Iseli
- University Hospital, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | | | - Tenzin Wangmo
- Institute for Biomedical Ethics, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
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Parker D, Hudson P, Tieman J, Thomas K, Saward D, Ivynian S. Evaluation of an online toolkit for carers of people with a life-limiting illness at the end-of-life: health professionals' perspectives. Aust J Prim Health 2021; 27:473-478. [PMID: 34802508 DOI: 10.1071/py21019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2021] [Accepted: 06/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Carers of people with a life-limiting illness report unmet information, practical, and emotional support needs, and are often unaware of services available to help improve preparedness, wellbeing, and reduce strain. CarerHelp is the first e-health toolkit that focuses on the information and support needs of carers of people with a life-limiting illness at the end-of-life, using a pathway approach. This study investigated the usefulness of CarerHelp, from the perspective of health professionals who care for these people. Through a 10-min online survey, health professionals provided feedback about their user experience and perceived usefulness of the website. Their expert opinion was sought to ascertain whether CarerHelp could increase carers' preparedness and confidence to support the person for whom they are caring and thereby improve carers' own psychological wellbeing. Health professionals also evaluated whether CarerHelp adequately raised awareness of support services available. CarerHelp was perceived as a useful resource for increasing preparedness for the caring role, including physical tasks and emotional support. Health professionals reported that CarerHelp would increase carers' knowledge of services, confidence to care and ability for self-care. Health professionals endorsed CarerHelp as a useful information source, guide for support, and would promote CarerHelp to clients and their families.
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Affiliation(s)
- D Parker
- Faculty of Health, University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - P Hudson
- Centre for Palliative Care, St Vincent's Hospital Melbourne, Melbourne, Vic., Australia; and Faculty of Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Vic., Australia; and Vrije University, Brussels, Belgium
| | - J Tieman
- Research Centre for Palliative Care, Death and Dying, Flinders University, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - K Thomas
- Centre for Palliative Care, St Vincent's Hospital Melbourne, Melbourne, Vic., Australia
| | - D Saward
- Centre for Palliative Care, St Vincent's Hospital Melbourne, Melbourne, Vic., Australia
| | - S Ivynian
- Faculty of Health, University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia; and Corresponding author.
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