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Pepper A, Dening KH. Community support for families affected by dementia. Br J Community Nurs 2024; 29:218-223. [PMID: 38701008 DOI: 10.12968/bjcn.2024.29.5.218] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/05/2024]
Abstract
This paper provides and overview of the community support services that may be available for people with dementia and their family carers. The authors introduce dementia, including the impact of the diagnosis on both the person with dementia and the wider family. Using a case study approach, the authors describe the support available, spanning health and social care and third sector organisations. They discuss how this support can enable people with dementia and their carers to maintain wellbeing and cope with the impact of dementia. This article will be of interest to community nurses, and health and social care professionals more generally, who may encounter families affected by dementia in community settings. Having a good knowledge of the support available and how to access it will allow community nurses to capitalise on the health promotion opportunities presented to them, when they come into contact with families affected by dementia in the course of their day-to-day practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amy Pepper
- Admiral Nurse and Research Fellow, Dementia UK, Floor 7, One Aldgate, London, EC3N 1RE
| | - Karen Harrison Dening
- Head of Research and Publications; Chair of Dementia Nursing (honorary), De Montfort University, The Gateway, Leicester, LE1 9BH
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Mahomed A, Pretorius C. Giving voice to the voiceless: Understanding the perceived needs of dementia family carers in Soweto, a South African township. Dementia (London) 2024; 23:622-642. [PMID: 38354041 PMCID: PMC11059838 DOI: 10.1177/14713012241234155] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/01/2024]
Abstract
This qualitative study aimed to provide family caregivers with an independent platform to reflect on and identify their needs in the role of dementia caregiver. Thirty caregivers were interviewed using a semi-structured approach, and data analysis followed a reflective thematic analysis method. The study revealed that Black African caregivers in townships require sufficient information and orientation to dementia-specific services, psychoeducation on dementia as a disease and its behavioural manifestations, as well as practical skills to manage the disease process. Caregivers expressed the need for in-depth, accessible education to boost their confidence and resilience in handling the challenges of dementia caregiving. They also proposed community initiatives to raise awareness, promote knowledge, and facilitate early detection and diagnosis of dementia. Additional needs included informational and educational workshops, resources like transportation services and helplines, day care facilities, media campaigns, and collaboration with the government for funding and policy change. New caregivers were advised to seek comprehensive education, support, and services while preserving the dignity of their family members with dementia. Remarkably, the identified needs and community initiatives aligned with the priority areas outlined by ADI for a National Dementia Plan, which South Africa currently lacks. The study highlights the importance of developing a National Dementia Plan in South Africa through collaboration among stakeholders, including communities, policy-makers, and multidisciplinary healthcare teams, while ensuring that individuals and families affected by dementia have a voice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aqeela Mahomed
- Department of Psychology, Stellenbosch University, South Africa
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Laidsaar-Powell R, Giunta S, Butow P, Keast R, Koczwara B, Kay J, Jefford M, Turner S, Saunders C, Schofield P, Boyle F, Yates P, White K, Miller A, Butt Z, Bonnaudet M, Juraskova I. Development of Web-Based Education Modules to Improve Carer Engagement in Cancer Care: Design and User Experience Evaluation of the e-Triadic Oncology (eTRIO) Modules for Clinicians, Patients, and Carers. JMIR Med Educ 2024; 10:e50118. [PMID: 38630531 PMCID: PMC11063882 DOI: 10.2196/50118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2023] [Revised: 11/27/2023] [Accepted: 01/31/2024] [Indexed: 04/19/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Carers often assume key roles in cancer care. However, many carers report feeling disempowered and ill-equipped to support patients. Our group published evidence-based guidelines (the Triadic Oncology [TRIO] Guidelines) to improve oncology clinician engagement with carers and the management of challenging situations involving carers. OBJECTIVE To facilitate implementation of the TRIO Guidelines in clinical practice, we aimed to develop, iteratively refine, and conduct user testing of a suite of evidence-based and interactive web-based education modules for oncology clinicians (e-Triadic Oncology [eTRIO]), patients with cancer, and carers (eTRIO for Patients and Carers [eTRIO-pc]). These were designed to improve carer involvement, communication, and shared decision-making in the cancer management setting. METHODS The eTRIO education modules were based on extensive research, including systematic reviews, qualitative interviews, and consultation analyses. Guided by the person-based approach, module content and design were reviewed by an expert advisory group comprising academic and clinical experts (n=13) and consumers (n=5); content and design were continuously and iteratively refined. User experience testing (including "think-aloud" interviews and administration of the System Usability Scale [SUS]) of the modules was completed by additional clinicians (n=5), patients (n=3), and carers (n=3). RESULTS The final clinician module comprises 14 sections, requires approximately 1.5 to 2 hours to complete, and covers topics such as carer-inclusive communication and practices; supporting carer needs; and managing carer dominance, anger, and conflicting patient-carer wishes. The usability of the module was rated by 5 clinicians, with a mean SUS score of 75 (SD 5.3), which is interpreted as good. Clinicians often desired information in a concise format, divided into small "snackable" sections that could be easily recommenced if they were interrupted. The carer module features 11 sections; requires approximately 1.5 hours to complete; and includes topics such as the importance of carers, carer roles during consultations, and advocating for the patient. The patient module is an adaptation of the relevant carer module sections, comprising 7 sections and requiring 1 hour to complete. The average SUS score as rated by 6 patients and carers was 78 (SD 16.2), which is interpreted as good. Interactive activities, clinical vignette videos, and reflective learning exercises are incorporated into all modules. Patient and carer consumer advisers advocated for empathetic content and tone throughout their modules, with an easy-to-read and navigable module interface. CONCLUSIONS The eTRIO suite of modules were rigorously developed using a person-based design methodology to meet the unique information needs and learning requirements of clinicians, patients, and carers, with the goal of improving effective and supportive carer involvement in cancer consultations and cancer care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebekah Laidsaar-Powell
- Centre for Medical Psychology & Evidence-based Decision-making, School of Psychology, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
- Psycho-Oncology Co-operative Research Group, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Sarah Giunta
- Centre for Medical Psychology & Evidence-based Decision-making, School of Psychology, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Phyllis Butow
- Centre for Medical Psychology & Evidence-based Decision-making, School of Psychology, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
- Psycho-Oncology Co-operative Research Group, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Rachael Keast
- Centre for Medical Psychology & Evidence-based Decision-making, School of Psychology, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Bogda Koczwara
- Flinders Medical Centre, Adelaide, Australia
- College of Medicine and Public Health, Flinders University, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Judy Kay
- School of Computer Science, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Michael Jefford
- Health Services Research and Implementation Science, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Sandra Turner
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Westmead Hospital, Westmead, Australia
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Christobel Saunders
- Department of Surgery, Royal Melbourne Hospital, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Penelope Schofield
- Health Services Research and Implementation Science, Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre, Melbourne, Australia
- Department of Psychology and Iverson Health Innovation Research Institute, Swinburne University, Melbourne, Australia
- Sir Peter MacCallum Department of Oncology, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Frances Boyle
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
- Patricia Ritchie Centre for Cancer Care & Research, Mater Hospital, Sydney, Australia
| | - Patsy Yates
- Faculty of Health, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Kate White
- Susan Wakil School of Nursing, The Daffodil Centre, The University of Sydney, a joint venture with Cancer Council New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - Annie Miller
- Cancer Council New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - Zoe Butt
- Centre for Medical Psychology & Evidence-based Decision-making, School of Psychology, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Melanie Bonnaudet
- School of Computer Science, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
- School of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, Kungliga Tekniska högskolan Royal Institute of Technology, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Ilona Juraskova
- Centre for Medical Psychology & Evidence-based Decision-making, School of Psychology, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
- Psycho-Oncology Co-operative Research Group, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
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Vandenbogaerde I, Van den Block L, Deliens L, Carduff E, van der Heide A, De Bleecker J, De Vleminck A. Experiences with advance care planning in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: Qualitative longitudinal study with people with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and their family carers. Palliat Med 2024:2692163241242320. [PMID: 38610119 DOI: 10.1177/02692163241242320] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/14/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND It is unclear when people with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and their family carers think about their future, what they would prefer in terms of care, and how their ideas change over time. AIM Understanding experiences with advance care planning of persons with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and their family carers-and if, when, how, and why these experiences change over time. DESIGN A qualitative longitudinal interview study. Analysis involved content analysis, followed by a two-step timeline method to describe changes in advance care planning experiences within and across participants. SETTING/PARTICIPANTS Nine persons with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and nine family carers who were interviewed three times over a 9-month period. RESULTS All participants thought about future care, but few talked about it. Over time, advance care planning experiences were influenced by intertwined elements: (1) experienced physical decline and related future care needs; (2) how persons with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis identify themselves as patients; (3) obtaining information about diagnosis and prognosis; (4) professionals initiating conversations about medical aspects of end-of-life decisions; (5) balancing between hope to remain stable and worry about the future; and (6) protecting themselves and each other from worries about the future. CONCLUSION This study emphasizes how factors such as coping with the disease and relational dynamics shape individuals' thoughts about future care over time and how psychological, social, and medical factors are interwoven in advance care planning. The findings advocate for a process-oriented perspective, portraying advance care planning as an ongoing dialog, encompassing the needs, concerns, and emotions of both people with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and their family carers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isabel Vandenbogaerde
- End-of-life Care Research Group, Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB) & Universiteit Gent, Brussels, Belgium
- Department of Public Health and Primary Care, Universiteit Gent, Ghent, Belgium
- Department of Family Medicine and Chronic Care, Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB) & Ghent University, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Lieve Van den Block
- End-of-life Care Research Group, Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB) & Universiteit Gent, Brussels, Belgium
- Department of Public Health and Primary Care, Universiteit Gent, Ghent, Belgium
- Department of Family Medicine and Chronic Care, Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB) & Ghent University, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Luc Deliens
- End-of-life Care Research Group, Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB) & Universiteit Gent, Brussels, Belgium
- Department of Public Health and Primary Care, Universiteit Gent, Ghent, Belgium
- Department of Family Medicine and Chronic Care, Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB) & Ghent University, Brussels, Belgium
| | | | - Agnes van der Heide
- Erasmus MC, University Medical Centre Rotterdam, Department of Public Health, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Jan De Bleecker
- Department of Head and Skin, Ghent University Hospital, Universiteit Gent, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Aline De Vleminck
- End-of-life Care Research Group, Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB) & Universiteit Gent, Brussels, Belgium
- Department of Public Health and Primary Care, Universiteit Gent, Ghent, Belgium
- Department of Family Medicine and Chronic Care, Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB) & Ghent University, Brussels, Belgium
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Kasdorf A, Voltz R, Strupp J. Dying at home: What is needed? Findings from a nationwide retrospective cross-sectional online survey of bereaved people in Germany. Palliat Support Care 2024:1-9. [PMID: 38533612 DOI: 10.1017/s1478951524000440] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/28/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES According to the "Last Year of Life in Cologne" study, 68% of patients with a serious and terminal illness wanted to die at home, but 42% died in hospital. Only 1 in 5 died at home. Most people want to spend their last days and hours at home, but the reality is that this is not always possible. Recommendations are needed on how best to support families to enable people to die at home - if this is their preferred place of death. Our aim was to identify the factors that make it possible for people to die at home and to analyze factors of dying at home. METHODS Germany-wide quantitative cross-sectional online survey of bereaved adult relatives. RESULTS The needs of 320 relatives of patients who wished to die at home were explored. Of these, 198 patients died at home and 122 did not. In the last 3 months of life, caregivers needed support in managing out-of-hours care (p < 0.001), financing (p = 0.012), preparing and organizing home care (both p < 0.001), communicating with the patient and medical staff (p = 0.012 and p = 0.009, respectively), and pain management (p < 0.001). Relatives whose next of kin did not die at home had higher needs, suggesting that these factors are key to home care of the dying. SIGNIFICANCE OF RESULTS The process of dying at home begins long before the actual dying phase. To minimize caregiver burden and improve symptom management, advanced home care plans are needed, with ongoing reassessment of family preferences and abilities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alina Kasdorf
- Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, Department of Palliative Medicine, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Raymond Voltz
- Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, Department of Palliative Medicine, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
- Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, Center for Health Services Research, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
- Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, Center for Integrated Oncology Aachen Bonn Cologne Dusseldorf (CIO ABCD), University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Julia Strupp
- Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, Department of Palliative Medicine, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
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Vega-Mendoza M, Norval RS, Blankinship B, Bak TH. Language Learning for People Living with Dementia and Their Caregivers: Feasibility and the Quality of Experience. Healthcare (Basel) 2024; 12:717. [PMID: 38610141 PMCID: PMC11011596 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare12070717] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2024] [Revised: 03/04/2024] [Accepted: 03/17/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND A body of research from around the world has reported positive effects of bilingualism on cognitive ageing and dementia. However, little is known about whether foreign language learning could be applied as an intervention for people already living with dementia. Yet, before it is possible to determine the efficacy of language courses as an intervention for people living with dementia (PLWD), it is necessary to establish whether such an intervention is feasible. Our study explored this possibility. METHODS We conducted an exploratory study to examine the feasibility and tolerability of 2-week Italian beginner courses for PLWD in early stages and their family carers in two Scottish Dementia Resource Centres (DRCs). The courses were delivered by trained tutors from Lingo Flamingo, a social enterprise specialising in language teaching for older learners and learners with dementia. Twelve PLWD and seven carers participated in the study. Focus groups preceded and followed the courses. Additional post-course open interviews with the DRC managers were conducted, with a follow-up via telephone approximately one year later. RESULTS Qualitative content analysis resulted in 12 themes, 5 reflected in the interview schedule and 7 arising from the focus groups and interviews. Overall, the courses were perceived positively by PLWD, carers, and DRC managers, although a few logistically and linguistically challenging aspects were also mentioned. The courses were found to positively impact both the individual by increasing self-esteem and producing a sense of accomplishment as well as the group by creating a sense of community. Notably, no adverse effects (in particular no confusion or frustration) were reported. CONCLUSION The positive outcomes of our study open a novel avenue for future research to explore foreign language training in dementia as an intervention and its implications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mariana Vega-Mendoza
- Psychology, Department of Health, Education and Technology, Luleå University of Technology, 971 87 Luleå, Sweden
- Department of Psychology, School of Philosophy, Psychology and Language Sciences, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH8 9JZ, UK; (B.B.); (T.H.B.)
| | | | - Brittany Blankinship
- Department of Psychology, School of Philosophy, Psychology and Language Sciences, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH8 9JZ, UK; (B.B.); (T.H.B.)
- Usher Institute, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH8 9AG, UK
| | - Thomas H. Bak
- Department of Psychology, School of Philosophy, Psychology and Language Sciences, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH8 9JZ, UK; (B.B.); (T.H.B.)
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Barsan K, Swindle J, Boscart VM, Chacinsky D, Hoben M, Hopper T, McGilton K, O'Rourke HM. Remote visits to address loneliness for people living with dementia in care homes: A descriptive qualitative study of visitors' perceptions. J Adv Nurs 2024. [PMID: 38383118 DOI: 10.1111/jan.16112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2023] [Revised: 01/08/2024] [Accepted: 02/06/2024] [Indexed: 02/23/2024]
Abstract
AIMS To assess visitors' perceptions of the benefits and challenges related to engaging in a remote visit intervention, which was designed to address the loneliness of people living with moderate to severe dementia in care homes. DESIGN A qualitative descriptive study. METHODS Twenty-four people living with dementia in care homes in Canada and their family and friends (i.e., remote visitors) took part in facilitated remote visits in 2021. Each person living with dementia received scheduled visits for 30-60 min per week for 6 weeks. Participants chose to complete one longer visit, or multiple shorter visits, per week. Twenty remote visitors participated in semi-structured interviews after six weeks to discuss their perspectives on the effectiveness, benefits and challenges of the program in relation to addressing experiences of loneliness of the person living with dementia. Conventional content analysis was used to analyze the data. RESULTS We describe three themes and several sub-themes. Themes support the use of remote visits to enhance, rather than replace, in-person visits; the benefits of remote visits for the person living with dementia and their remote visitors; and the conditions that lead to a successful remote visit. CONCLUSION Remote visitors reported that facilitated visits had positive effects for both visitors and people living with dementia with respect to loneliness, communication, relationships, and social connection. IMPLICATIONS FOR PATIENT CARE Clinicians can consider the factors that contributed to positive experiences of remote visits. The factors include individualized, facilitated visits that were flexible, and the use of reliable technology in a supportive, distraction-free environment. IMPACT Loneliness and social isolation are growing health concerns. When experienced by people living with dementia residing in long-term care homes, loneliness and social isolation can result in lower levels of quality of life and well-being, and higher levels of anxiety and responsive behaviours. Remote visitors perceived that facilitated remote visits have the potential to address loneliness and improve quality of life for people living with dementia and also offer social support to remote visitors. The findings can impact clinician practice by guiding the use of remote visits in care homes, and inform future intervention research to evaluate the effectiveness of remote visits for people living with dementia and their remote visitors. REPORTING METHOD This manuscript adheres to the relevant EQUATOR guidelines (the Consolidated criteria for reporting qualitative research or COREQ). PATIENT OR PUBLIC CONTRIBUTION No patient or public contribution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kelti Barsan
- College of Health Sciences, Faculty of Nursing, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Jennifer Swindle
- College of Health Sciences, Faculty of Nursing, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Veronique M Boscart
- School of Public Health and Health Systems, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ontario, Canada
| | - Dorothy Chacinsky
- College of Health Sciences, Faculty of Nursing, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Matthias Hoben
- College of Health Sciences, Faculty of Nursing, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
- Faculty of Health, School of Health Policy and Management, York University, Toronto, Alberta, Canada
| | - Tammy Hopper
- College of Health Sciences, Faculty of Rehabilitation Medicine, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Katherine McGilton
- Toronto Rehabilitation Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Lawrence S. Bloomberg Faculty of Nursing, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Hannah M O'Rourke
- College of Health Sciences, Faculty of Nursing, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
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Madsø KG, Weum R, Holthe T. Caregiver experience of the Norwegian manual for individual cognitive stimulation therapy (iCST): a qualitative study. Aging Ment Health 2024:1-10. [PMID: 38356118 DOI: 10.1080/13607863.2024.2313725] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2023] [Accepted: 01/24/2024] [Indexed: 02/16/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This research project investigated how family carers in Norway experienced delivering iCST, their need for supervision and the potential for co-occupation. METHODS Reflexive thematic analysis was used to understand the experiences of 11 carers using iCST for 8 wk. Three semi-structured interviews were conducted with each participant, including a pre-assessment of caregiver burden and a rating of dementia severity. RESULTS Most carers described the manual as self-instructive. Some felt overwhelmed when starting iCST. It was important to plan and individualise the sessions to the specific needs of the person with dementia. After delivering iCST the carers described new insights into the person with dementia's resources and challenges. Obstacles to doing iCST were related to the context, the manual or to specific challenges linked to the person with dementia or to the carer. Most participants described positive experiences, in which shared interaction, engagement and mastery were common. CONCLUSION When the carer understands the iCST programme as a tool and adapts it to the specific needs of the person with dementia then co-occupation and positive interactions happen. However, some carers would benefit from supervision and the iCST programme did not address all persons with dementia.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Rita Weum
- Norwegian National Centre for Ageing and Health, Vestfold Hospital Trust, Tønsberg, Norway
| | - Torhild Holthe
- Norwegian National Centre for Ageing and Health, Vestfold Hospital Trust, Tønsberg, Norway
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Budgett J. Setting individualised goals for people living with dementia and their family carers: A systematic review of goal-setting outcome measures and their psychometric properties. Dementia (London) 2024; 23:312-340. [PMID: 38105445 PMCID: PMC10807246 DOI: 10.1177/14713012231222309] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Individualised goal-setting outcome measures can be a useful way of reflecting people living with dementia and family carers' differing priorities regarding quality-of-life domains in the highly heterogeneous symptomatology of the disease. Evaluating goal-setting measures is challenging, and there is limited evidence for their psychometric properties. AIM (1) To describe what goal-setting outcomes have been used in this population; (2) To evaluate their validity, reliability, and feasibility in RCTs. METHOD We systematically reviewed studies that utilised goal-setting outcome measures for people living dementia or their family carers. We adapted a risk of bias and quality rating system based on the COSMIN guidelines to evaluate the measurement properties of outcomes when used within RCTs. RESULTS Thirty studies meeting inclusion criteria used four different goal-setting outcome measures: Goal Attainment Scaling (GAS), Bangor Goal Setting Interview (BGSI), Canadian Occupational Performance Measure (COPM) and Individually Prioritized Problems Assessment (IPPA); other papers have reported study-specific goal-setting attainment systems. Only GAS has been used as an outcome over periods greater than 9 months (up to a year). Within RCTs there was moderate quality evidence for sufficient content validity and construct validity for GAS, COPM and the BGSI. Reliability was only assessed in one RCT (using BGSI); in which two raters reviewed interview transcripts to rate goals with excellent inter-rater reliability. Feasibility was reported as good across the measures with a low level of missing data. CONCLUSION We found moderate quality evidence for good content and construct validity and feasibility of GAS, BGSI and COPM. While more evidence of reliability of these measures is needed, we recommend that future trials consider using individualised goal setting measures, to report the effect of interventions on outcomes that are most meaningful to people living with dementia and their families.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica Budgett
- Division of Psychiatry, University College London, and Centre for Psychiatry and Mental Health, Wolfsen Institute of Population Health, Queen Mary University of London UK
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López-Martínez C, Orgeta V, Frías-Osuna A, Del-Pino-Casado R. Coping and anxiety symptoms in family carers of dependent older people: Mediation and moderation effects of subjective caregiver burden. J Nurs Scholarsh 2024. [PMID: 38282022 DOI: 10.1111/jnu.12957] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2023] [Revised: 12/20/2023] [Accepted: 01/05/2024] [Indexed: 01/30/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Coping responses influence anxiety symptoms experienced by informal carers. However, only a few studies have investigated the longitudinal association between coping responses and anxiety symptoms in family carers. We also currently have limited knowledge on the mediating or moderating influence of subjective caregiver burden on this relationship over time. The aim of the present study was to investigate the longitudinal relationship between coping and anxiety symptoms in family carers of dependent older people, and examine the mediating or moderating role of subjective caregiver burden over time. DESIGN Prospective longitudinal study. METHODS We recruited and enrolled participants from a probability sample of 132 family carers of older dependent relatives. We measured coping strategies, anxiety symptoms, subjective caregiver burden, and several covariates (sex and intensity of care) at baseline and at 1-year follow-up. We used generalized estimating equations with multiple imputations to examine associations over time. RESULTS Considering both direct and indirect effects through subjective burden, anxiety symptoms were positively associated with proactive coping (B = 0.13), planning (B = 0.15), self-distraction (B = 0.24), denial (B = 1.15), venting (B = 0.94) and self-blame (B = 0.90), and negatively associated with positive reframing (B = -0.83) and acceptance (B = -0.75). Subjective caregiver burden moderated the relationship between anxiety symptoms and planning, and the use of denial as a form of coping. CONCLUSIONS Our results show that subjective caregiver burden is an important moderator and mediator of the longitudinal association between coping responses and anxiety symptoms in carers. CLINICAL RELEVANCE Proactive coping and planning when subjective burden is low, self-distraction, denial, venting, and self-blame significantly increase levels of anxiety and caregiver burden in carers over time. Acceptance and positive reframing however as coping responses are associated with lower levels of anxiety and caregiver burden long-term. Our findings highlight the need for a multi-dimensional approach in future caregiving interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Vasiliki Orgeta
- Division of Psychiatry, University College London, London, UK
| | - Antonio Frías-Osuna
- Department of Nursing, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Jaén, Jaén, Spain
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Ulapane N, Wickramasinghe N, Dang TH, Thodis A, Brijnath B. Web-Based Intervention for Multilingual Family Carers of People with Dementia: Insights from the DrawCare Study. Stud Health Technol Inform 2024; 310:1416-1417. [PMID: 38269674 DOI: 10.3233/shti231222] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2024]
Abstract
Addressing the needs of ethnically diverse multilingual people can be challenging in environments that are non-native to them. The consequences of this issue become more significant in healthcare contexts. Insights from the DrawCare study-an Australian study that explores the effectiveness of a web-based intervention for multilingual family carers of people with dementia-are presented illustrating the enabling role of digital health.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Thu Ha Dang
- Swinburne University of Technology, Australia
- National Ageing Research Institute INC, Australia
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Bosco A, Di Lorito C, Yang Y, Dunlop M, Booth A, Alexander D, Jones S, Briggs M, Todd C, Burns A. Caregiver experiences of hospice dementia care: a systematic review and meta-ethnography. Aging Ment Health 2024; 28:197-206. [PMID: 37667896 DOI: 10.1080/13607863.2023.2241027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2023] [Accepted: 07/13/2023] [Indexed: 09/06/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Hospices are regarded as gold standard providers of end-of-life care. The term hospice, however, is broadly used, and can describe a type of care offered in a variety of health care services (e.g. nursing homes). It thus becomes complex for families to decide between services. We aimed to review the evidence around the experience of family carers of people with dementia accessing in-patient hospice settings for end-of-life care. METHOD We registered the review protocol on PROSPERO. We used PerSPE(C)TiF to systematically organise our search strategy. The evidence was reviewed across six databases: PubMed, EMBASE, PsycINFO, ASSIA, ISI Web, and CINAHL. We used meta-ethnography as per the eMERGe guidance for data interpretation. RESULTS Four studies were included. Two third-order constructs were generated through meta-ethnography: expectations of care and barriers to quality of care. We found that carers had expectations of care, and these could change over time. If discussion was not held with hospice staff early on, the carers could experience reduced care quality due to unmatched expectations. Unmatched expectations acted as barriers to care and these were found in terms of carers not feeling adequately supported, and/or having the person discharged from hospice, which would entail increased care responsibility for carers. CONCLUSION In view of an increase in new dementia cases over time and with hospice services being under pressure, integrating palliative care services within community-based models of care is key to reducing the risk of having inadequate and under resourced services for people with dementia.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Bosco
- School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
- National Institute for Health and Care Research, Applied Research Collaboration- Greater Manchester, Manchester, UK
- Manchester Institute for Collaborative Research on Ageing, Manchester, UK
- Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, UK
| | - C Di Lorito
- Department of Primary Care and Population Health, University College London, Centre for Ageing Population Studies, Royal Free Hospital, London, UK
| | - Y Yang
- School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
- National Institute for Health and Care Research, Applied Research Collaboration- Greater Manchester, Manchester, UK
- Manchester Institute for Collaborative Research on Ageing, Manchester, UK
- Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, UK
| | - M Dunlop
- School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - A Booth
- School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - D Alexander
- East Cheshire Hospice, Macclesfield, Cheshire, UK
| | - S Jones
- East Cheshire Hospice, Macclesfield, Cheshire, UK
| | - M Briggs
- Division of Nursing, Midwifery and Social Work, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, UK
| | - C Todd
- School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
- National Institute for Health and Care Research, Applied Research Collaboration- Greater Manchester, Manchester, UK
- Manchester Institute for Collaborative Research on Ageing, Manchester, UK
- Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, UK
- Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester, UK
| | - A Burns
- Manchester Institute for Collaborative Research on Ageing, Manchester, UK
- Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, UK
- Division of Neuroscience and Experimental Psychology, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
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Tsai LP, Barr JA. The experiences and perceptions of immigrant informal caregivers about engaging with professional services in the host country: A scoping review. Int J Nurs Pract 2023:e13227. [PMID: 38128928 DOI: 10.1111/ijn.13227] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2022] [Revised: 11/21/2023] [Accepted: 11/27/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023]
Abstract
AIM The inquiry explored immigrant informal caregivers' experiences and perceptions about engaging with professional services in the host country. BACKGROUND The number of informal caregivers is rising, with more people providing home caring. Nurses and other health services are crucial in supporting informal caregivers. Research needs to focus more on immigrants, not just other caregivers. DESIGN This was a scoping review. DATA SOURCES Five databases (January 2017-December 2022) were searched, and 16 articles were included in this inquiry. REVIEW METHODS This scoping review used the Joanna Briggs Institute Scoping Review methodology. This inquiry asked one question: What is the current knowledge about immigrant informal caregivers' experiences and perceptions when engaging mainstream professional services? Themes were identified using a thematic analysis approach. RESULTS Three themes emerged from the review: 'finding cultural bridges: culturally connecting with services'; 'building cultural bridges: addressing "them and us" and "acculturation-sensitive services"'. CONCLUSION Professional service providers are currently not meeting immigrant caregivers' needs. New knowledge is presented, that nurses and health professional services must provide acculturation-sensitive care, commencing with an assessment of the individual's acculturation status. By understanding acculturation status, nurses are more likely to customize person-centred care. Acculturation status refers to the degree that the individual has adapted to the new culture while retaining some traditional cultural beliefs and practices. Acculturation-sensitive care is more likely to provide authentic holistic care that optimizes well-being.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lily P Tsai
- Faculty of Health, Charles Darwin University, Casuarina, Australia
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14
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Brennan D, D’eath M. Irish social policy to family carers of adults with an intellectual disability: A critical analysis. J Intellect Disabil 2023; 27:1013-1031. [PMID: 35835719 PMCID: PMC10647897 DOI: 10.1177/17446295221115296] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
This paper explores contemporary Irish social policy for family caregivers with specific focus on the dynamic between the individual, the family and the state in terms of the social contract for care provision for people with intellectual disability. Drawing from Bacchi's analytical framework (Bacchi, 2009), the Irish National Carers' Strategy is interrogated specifically with regards to how it frames and assumes the social contract for family care provision for adults with an intellectual disability. We suggest that Irish social policy constructs family caregiving as the assumed natural and neutral point of departure for providing care within society, and this constructed identify is subsequently reinforced through the provisions contained with the policies themselves that seek to support such caregivers. A fundamental reconsideration of the social contract for such care provision and support with society would appear warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Damien Brennan
- School of Nursing & Midwifery, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Maureen D’eath
- School of Nursing & Midwifery, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
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Trucco AP, Mioshi E, Kishita N, Barry C, Backhouse T. Navigating an emotional journey: A qualitative study of the emotional experiences of family carers currently supporting people living with motor neurone disease. Palliat Support Care 2023:1-7. [PMID: 37935447 DOI: 10.1017/s147895152300158x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Family carers of people living with motor neurone disease (MND) face continuous changes and losses during the progression of the disease, impacting on their emotional wellbeing. Carers' emotions might affect their engagement in everyday activities and their caring role. However, how carers manage their emotions and which strategies they identify as useful to cope with them while caring is under researched. OBJECTIVE To identify the emotional experiences and coping strategies of MND family carers while caring the person living with MND. METHODS We conducted 14 semi-structured interviews with family carers currently supporting people living with MND living in the UK. Interviews were audio/video recorded and professionally transcribed verbatim. We analyzed data inductively within an interpretive descriptive approach, using reflexive thematic analysis. RESULTS Three key themes were generated from the analysis. Destabilization of diagnosis reflected the devastating impact the diagnosis had on carers, characterized by initial overwhelming emotions. Adapting to new circumstances and identifying coping strategies captured how carers experienced everyday changes and losses and how they gradually adjusted to the situation by identifying coping strategies to be able to manage arising emotions. Maintaining emotional coping encompassed how carers used individual strategies they had tried before and had worked for them to cope emotionally with the continuous changes and losses while preserving their emotional wellbeing. SIGNIFICANCE OF RESULTS Our findings suggest that carers of people living with MND embark on an emotional journey from the diagnosis of the disease. As the disease progresses, carers adopt coping strategies that best work for them to manage their emotions (e.g., living day by day and seeking support). Understanding the key strategies used to support emotional coping during the caring journey and how carers re-construct their emotional life around MND could help inform future practice and research to better support carers of this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Paula Trucco
- School of Health Sciences, University of East Anglia, Norwich, UK
| | - Eneida Mioshi
- School of Health Sciences, University of East Anglia, Norwich, UK
| | - Naoko Kishita
- School of Health Sciences, University of East Anglia, Norwich, UK
| | - Caroline Barry
- Department of Palliative Care, Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital Foundation Trust, Norwich, UK
| | - Tamara Backhouse
- School of Health Sciences, University of East Anglia, Norwich, UK
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Huynh TNT, Hartel G, Janda M, Wyld D, Merrett N, Gooden H, Neale RE, Beesley VL. The Unmet Needs of Pancreatic Cancer Carers Are Associated with Anxiety and Depression in Patients and Carers. Cancers (Basel) 2023; 15:5307. [PMID: 38001567 PMCID: PMC10670364 DOI: 10.3390/cancers15225307] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2023] [Revised: 10/20/2023] [Accepted: 10/31/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Pancreatic cancer has one of the lowest survival rates, and patients experience debilitating symptoms. Family carers provide essential daily care. This study determined the prevalence of and risk factors for unmet supportive care needs among carers for pancreatic cancer patients and examined which carer needs were associated with anxiety and depression in carers and patients. Eighty-four pancreatic cancer patients and their carers were recruited. The carers completed a needs survey (SCNS-P&C). Both carers and patients completed the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale. Log binomial regression was used to identify associations between carer needs and anxiety and depression among carers and patients. The top 10 moderate-to-high unmet needs reported by ≥28% of carers were related to healthcare (e.g., discussing concerns with doctors) and information need domains (e.g., information about a patient's physical needs), plus one other item related to hospital parking. Being male or caring for a patient within 4 months of their diagnosis were associated with greater unmet needs. Some unmet needs, including 'accessing information about treatments' and 'being involved in patient care', were associated with both carers and patients having anxiety and depression. Carers should be involved in health care consultations and provided with information and opportunities to discuss concerns.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thi N. T. Huynh
- Population Health Department, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, QLD 4006, Australia; (T.N.T.H.); (G.H.); (R.E.N.)
- Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4006, Australia; (M.J.); (D.W.)
| | - Gunter Hartel
- Population Health Department, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, QLD 4006, Australia; (T.N.T.H.); (G.H.); (R.E.N.)
- Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4006, Australia; (M.J.); (D.W.)
- School of Nursing, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD 4059, Australia
| | - Monika Janda
- Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4006, Australia; (M.J.); (D.W.)
| | - David Wyld
- Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4006, Australia; (M.J.); (D.W.)
- School of Nursing, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD 4059, Australia
- Cancer Care Services, Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital, Herston, QLD 4029, Australia
| | - Neil Merrett
- School of Medicine, Western Sydney University, Sydney, NSW 2560, Australia;
| | - Helen Gooden
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia;
| | - Rachel E. Neale
- Population Health Department, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, QLD 4006, Australia; (T.N.T.H.); (G.H.); (R.E.N.)
- Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4006, Australia; (M.J.); (D.W.)
| | - Vanessa L. Beesley
- Population Health Department, QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, Brisbane, QLD 4006, Australia; (T.N.T.H.); (G.H.); (R.E.N.)
- Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD 4006, Australia; (M.J.); (D.W.)
- School of Nursing, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD 4059, Australia
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Szczepura A, Masaki H, Wild D, Nomura T, Collinson M, Kneafsey R. Integrated Long-Term Care 'Neighbourhoods' to Support Older Populations: Evolving Strategies in Japan and England. Int J Environ Res Public Health 2023; 20:6352. [PMID: 37510584 PMCID: PMC10379849 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20146352] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2023] [Revised: 06/21/2023] [Accepted: 07/06/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023]
Abstract
Western countries are currently facing the public health challenge of a rapidly aging population and the associated challenge of providing long-term care services to meet its needs with a reduced working age population. As people age, they will increasingly require both health and social care services to maintain their quality of life and these will need to be integrated to provide cost-effective long-term care. The World Health Organization recommended in 2020 that all countries should have integrated long-term care strategies to better support their older populations. Japan, with the most rapidly ageing society in the world, started to address this challenge in the 1990s. In 2017, it introduced a national policy for integrated long-term health and social care services at a local geographical level for older people. England has recently embarked on its first plan aiming for the integration of services for older people. In this article, we compare these approaches to the integration of long-term care systems, including the strengths of each. The paper also considers the effects of historical, cultural and organizational factors and the emerging role of technology. Finally, we identify critical lessons that can inform strategy development in other countries, and highlight the need to provide more international comparisons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ala Szczepura
- Research Centre for Healthcare and Communities, Institute for Health & Wellbeing, Coventry University, Coventry CV1 5FB, UK
| | - Harue Masaki
- Graduate School of Nursing, Chiba University, Chiba 263-8522, Japan
| | - Deidre Wild
- Research Centre for Healthcare and Communities, Institute for Health & Wellbeing, Coventry University, Coventry CV1 5FB, UK
| | - Toshio Nomura
- Research Centre for Healthcare and Communities, Institute for Health & Wellbeing, Coventry University, Coventry CV1 5FB, UK
| | - Mark Collinson
- MC2S Consultancy Services, Bromsgrove, Worcestershire B48 7JX, UK
| | - Rosie Kneafsey
- Research Centre for Healthcare and Communities, Institute for Health & Wellbeing, Coventry University, Coventry CV1 5FB, UK
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Velaga VC, Cook A, Auret K, Jenkins T, Thomas G, Aoun SM. Palliative and End-of-Life Care for People Living with Motor Neurone Disease: Ongoing Challenges and Necessity for Shifting Directions. Brain Sci 2023; 13:920. [PMID: 37371398 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci13060920] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2023] [Revised: 05/31/2023] [Accepted: 06/05/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Although the progressive clinical trajectory of motor neurone disease (MND) is widely understood, multiple challenges remain preventing optimal end-of-life care for this population with unique needs from the patient, carer and service provider perspectives. This paper reports on the experiences, gaps in service and unmet needs of MND patients and family carers and explores public health palliative care approaches that would facilitate coordinated and integrated care to respond to their changing needs. This is a qualitative study of responses to questions in an online consumer survey (353 respondents) in Western Australia (2020), focusing on a subset of 29 current and bereaved carers of people with MND who have used health services in the last five years. The analysis identified themes, highlighting the insufficient integration of services across health and social care; poor and unequal access to coordinated palliative care; significant gaps in the knowledge base of the workforce and a failure to meet the consumer expectations of person-centred care. For palliative care to be accessible to those living with MND and other under-served conditions, there needs to be a shift to more comprehensive, inclusive and sustainable options, such as the public health approach to palliative/end-of-life care that engages the assets of local communities in partnership with health services, one example being the "Compassionate Communities Connectors" model of care. Further considerations include advocacy for policy changes, fostering partnerships and developing indicators for evaluating the impact of the proposed models of care. The end result is not only better care but substantial savings for the health system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vivek C Velaga
- Perron Institute for Neurological and Translational Science, 8 Verdun St, Nedlands, WA 6009, Australia
| | - Angus Cook
- School of Population and Global Health, University of Western Australia, Clifton Street Building, Clifton Street, Nedlands, WA 6009, Australia
| | - Kirsten Auret
- Rural Clinical School of Western Australia, University of Western Australia, Building M701/31 Stirling Terrace, Albany, WA 6330, Australia
| | - Tom Jenkins
- St John of God Midland Hospital, 1 Clayton Street, Midland, WA 6056, Australia
| | - Geoff Thomas
- Thomas MND Research Group, 48 Grevillea Way, Blackwood, SA 5051, Australia
| | - Samar M Aoun
- Perron Institute for Neurological and Translational Science, 8 Verdun St, Nedlands, WA 6009, Australia
- Medical School, University of Western Australia, 8 Verdun St, Nedlands, WA 6009, Australia
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Phillips R, Durkin M, Engward H, Cable G, Iancu M. The impact of caring for family members with mental illnesses on the caregiver: a scoping review. Health Promot Int 2023; 38:daac049. [PMID: 35472137 PMCID: PMC10269136 DOI: 10.1093/heapro/daac049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/15/2023] Open
Abstract
A large number of multidisciplinary, qualitative and quantitative research suggests that providing care for family members with mental health illnesses can have both positive and negative effects on the carers' wellbeing. However, to date a comprehensive overview and synthesis of literature that compares and contrasts positive and negative effects of family-caregiving on the carer is missing. To address this gap, this scoping review examines the effects of family-caregiving on carers' wellbeing. A Boolean search generated a total of 92 relevant articles that were included in the analysis. The results suggest that, to understand the effects of family-caregiving on the carer's mental and physical wellbeing, it is necessary to take a combination of situational and sociodemographic characteristics into consideration. Elderly, female, spousal-carers and primary-carers may be a group that is at risk of suffering from a lack of positive mental and physical wellbeing as a result of caring. However, the negative effects of caregiving can be balanced by extraversion, social support and religious or spiritual beliefs. Therefore, future interventions that aim to promote family caregivers' wellbeing may need to take personality, particular circumstances as well as cultural and personal beliefs into consideration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rita Phillips
- Robert Gordon University, Garthdee House, Garthdee Road, Aberdeen AB10 7QB, UK
| | | | - Hilary Engward
- Anglia Ruskin University, Cambridge Campus, East Rd, Cambridge CB1 1PT, UK
| | - Graham Cable
- Anglia Ruskin University, Cambridge Campus, East Rd, Cambridge CB1 1PT, UK
| | - Maria Iancu
- Anglia Ruskin University, Cambridge Campus, East Rd, Cambridge CB1 1PT, UK
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Webster L, Amador S, Rapaport P, Mukadam N, Sommerlad A, James T, Javed S, Roche M, Lord K, Bharadia T, Rahman-Amin M, Lang I, Livingston G. Tailoring STrAtegies for RelaTives for Black and South Asian dementia family carers in the United Kingdom: A mixed methods study. Int J Geriatr Psychiatry 2023; 38:e5868. [PMID: 36642866 PMCID: PMC10107806 DOI: 10.1002/gps.5868] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2022] [Accepted: 01/06/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES We culturally adapted STrAtegies for RelaTives (START), a clinically and cost-effective intervention for dementia family carers, for Black and South Asian families. It had previously been delivered to family carers around the time of diagnosis, when most people with dementia had very mild, mild or moderate dementia. METHODS We interviewed a maximum variation sample of family carers (phase one; n = 15 South Asian; n = 11 Black) about what aspect of START, required cultural adaptation, then analysed it thematically using the Cultural Treatment Adaptation Framework then adapted it in English and into Urdu. Facilitators then delivered START individually to carers (phase two; n = 13 South Asian; n = 8 Black). We assessed acceptability and feasibility through the number of sessions attended, score for fidelity to the intervention and interviewing family carers about their experiences. We used the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale. to examine whether immediate changes in family carers' mental health were in line with previous studies. RESULTS In phase one we made adaptations to peripheral elements of START, clarifying language, increasing illustrative vignettes numbers, emphasising privacy and the facilitator's cultural competence and making images ethnically diverse. In phase two 21 family carers consented to receive the adapted intervention; 12 completed ≥5/8 sessions; four completed fewer sessions and five never started. Baseline HADS score (n = 21) was 14.4 (SD = 9.8) but for those who we were able to follow up was 12.3 (SD 8.1) and immediately post-intervention was 11.3 (n = 10; SD = 6.1). Family carers were positive about the adapted START and continued to use elements after the intervention. CONCLUSIONS Culturally adapted START was acceptable and feasible in South Asian and Black UK-based family carers and changes in mental health were in line with those in the original clinical trial. Our study shows that culturally inclusive START was also acceptable. Changes made in adaptations were relevant to all populations. We now use the adapted version for all family carers irrespective of ethnicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucy Webster
- Division of Psychiatry, UCL, London, UK.,Centre for Health Services Studies, University of Kent, Canterbury, UK
| | | | - Penny Rapaport
- Division of Psychiatry, UCL, London, UK.,Camden and Islington NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Naaheed Mukadam
- Division of Psychiatry, UCL, London, UK.,Camden and Islington NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Andrew Sommerlad
- Division of Psychiatry, UCL, London, UK.,Camden and Islington NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | | | | | | | - Kathryn Lord
- Centre for Applied Dementia Studies, University of Bradford, Bradford, UK
| | - Trishna Bharadia
- Patient and Public Representative & Patient Author, Buckinghamshire, UK
| | | | - Iain Lang
- Exeter Medical School, University of Exeter, Exeter, UK
| | - Gill Livingston
- Division of Psychiatry, UCL, London, UK.,Camden and Islington NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
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Israel P, Ruud T, Weimand B. Carer involvement in the assessment of personal recovery: A naturalistic study of assertive community treatment in Norway. Front Psychiatry 2023; 14:1135135. [PMID: 37051169 PMCID: PMC10083239 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2023.1135135] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2022] [Accepted: 02/22/2023] [Indexed: 04/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The user and carer movements have come a long way in becoming embedded in mainstream mental health services for individuals with serious mental illness. However, implementing recovery-oriented practice continues to be plagued by an individualistic clinical focus. The carers do not feel integrated despite policies and best intentions. The implementation of Assertive Community Treatment (ACT) provided an opportunity to involve the carers and compare their assessment of personal recovery with the users. Aims The aims of this study were to examine (i) how family carers and users differed in their assessment of personal recovery, (ii) whether familial and personal relationships influenced how carers assess personal recovery of users, and (iii) if the experience of family carers with the ACT team was associated with personal recovery. Methods The naturalistic, explorative study recruited 69 users and 36 family carers from 12 Norwegian ACT teams. The users and carers assessed the user's personal recovery. Family carers also reported their experience and satisfaction with the ACT teams. Analyses included independent and paired sample T-tests and correlation analysis. Results Family carers were significantly more conservative than the users' assessment of the intrapsychic and interpersonal subscales of personal recovery. The pattern held true whether the family carers were matched to the users or part of the total sample. Lastly, there was a significant negative correlation between the family carer's experience of cooperation with the ACT team and their assessment of the user's intrapersonal process of recovery. Conclusions The results of our study were consistent with previous research on carer involvement in MHS. However, it is the first study that engaged carers and assessed personal recovery of the users of ACT services. Discrepancy between carers and users is the rule. Clinicians are encouraged to embrace the discrepancy and diversity carers bring and learn the methodology of multi-informant assessments. There also is a need to address, update, and integrate the personal, familial, and relational aspects of recovery. Modification of recovery measures such as QPR and their creative use with carers has the potential to generate valuable third-party information and to involve them meaningfully in mental health services.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pravin Israel
- Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Stavanger, Stavanger, Norway
- Faculty of Health Studies, VID Specialized University, Oslo, Norway
- *Correspondence: Pravin Israel
| | - Torleif Ruud
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
- Division of Mental Health, Department of Special Psychiatry, Akershus University Hospital, Lørenskog, Norway
| | - Bente Weimand
- Division of Mental Health, Department of Special Psychiatry, Akershus University Hospital, Lørenskog, Norway
- Department of Health, Social, and Welfare Studies, University of South-Eastern Norway, Kongsberg, Norway
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Boeije H, Leemrijse C, Zonneveld E, van Schelven F. 'I cannot be missed yet': A qualitative study of carers of family members with an intellectual disability about long-term care planning during the COVID-19 pandemic. J Appl Res Intellect Disabil 2022; 36:310-319. [PMID: 36509109 PMCID: PMC9877928 DOI: 10.1111/jar.13060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2022] [Revised: 09/29/2022] [Accepted: 11/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Family carers of people with an intellectual disability sometimes need to transfer their caregiving tasks for example because of illness or ageing. We examined carers' experiences with long-term care planning and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on their intentions to engage in long-term planning in the Netherlands. METHOD Twenty-five semi-structured interviews with family carers of people with an intellectual disability were conducted and 169 answers to an open question were thematically analysed. Data collection took place at three timepoints during 2020 and 2021. RESULTS Family carers were recurrently concerned with long-term care planning, especially with finding people to whom they can entrust their tasks. However, they perceived barriers in care planning. The COVID-19 pandemic reinforced awareness of long-term care planning and moved some to action. CONCLUSIONS The perceived urge to plan by family carers has grown due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The current study provides valuable insights for stakeholders to support them in this.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hennie Boeije
- NivelNetherlands Institute for Health Services ResearchUtrechtThe Netherlands
| | - Chantal Leemrijse
- NivelNetherlands Institute for Health Services ResearchUtrechtThe Netherlands
| | - Ellen Zonneveld
- NivelNetherlands Institute for Health Services ResearchUtrechtThe Netherlands
| | - Femke van Schelven
- NivelNetherlands Institute for Health Services ResearchUtrechtThe Netherlands
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O'Connor CMC, Fisher A, Cheung SC, Caga J, Piguet O. Supporting behaviour change in younger-onset dementia: mapping the needs of family carers in the community. Aging Ment Health 2022; 26:2252-2261. [PMID: 34424808 DOI: 10.1080/13607863.2021.1966744] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Almost 10% of people with dementia experience a younger-onset of disease (before 65 years). Changes in behaviour are common, as are delays in diagnosis and limited access to appropriate support and services. This study aimed to explore the specific behaviour support needs of families living with younger-onset dementia. METHODS Seventy-one families of people with younger-onset dementia were surveyed to understand the experience of family carers regarding difficult-to-manage behaviour changes, confidence in identifying and implementing behaviour support strategies, use of specific behaviour support strategies, and use of formal and informal support services regarding behaviour changes. RESULTS Survey responses were received from family members of people living with behavioural variant frontotemporal dementia (n = 28), semantic dementia (n = 17), and Alzheimer's disease (n = 23). Over 90% of family carers reported difficult-to-manage behaviours which fell into four main domains: (1) aggression, (2) compulsive behaviour, (3) disinhibition and inappropriate social behaviour, and (4) apathy. A range of preventative and responsive strategies, with an emphasis on de-escalation strategies were identified and carers reported variable confidence in managing behaviour changes or in accessing formal support strategies. CONCLUSIONS Difficult-to-manage behaviour changes in community-dwelling people with younger-onset dementia are common. The existing agency of families should be recognised and built upon with better access to specific behaviour support services to increase competence and confidence in providing behaviour support and ultimately improve quality of life for them and their family member with dementia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claire M C O'Connor
- Centre for Positive Ageing, HammondCare, Sydney, Australia.,School of Population Health, The University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - Alinka Fisher
- College of Nursing and Health Sciences Adelaide, Flinders University, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Sau Chi Cheung
- School of Psychology and Brain & Mind Centre, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Jashelle Caga
- Sydney Medical School and Brain & Mind Centre, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Olivier Piguet
- School of Psychology and Brain & Mind Centre, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
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Velmurugan M, Watson J, Obst P, Ouyang C. Supporting carers in online role-diverse communities: A case study in Australia. Health Soc Care Community 2022; 30:e6030-e6043. [PMID: 36164728 DOI: 10.1111/hsc.14038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2020] [Revised: 08/12/2022] [Accepted: 09/12/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
This study aims to understand the effects that role-diverse online communities have on informal carers, particularly in providing support. Australian Facebook communities used to support those involved in the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) were explored. Social network analysis of an NDIS-centred community was conducted, based on 909 publicly visible interactions that occurred in May-June and August-September 2019. Two managers of informal NDIS communities were interviewed, the transcripts of which were analysed using NVivo. Results from the two analyses suggest that both an individual carer's attributes and the collective attributes of the network defined the capability of the network to support the carer, often depending on the experiences and expertise of those offering support. Support was unconstrained by role, though differing goals and expectations often impeded collaboration between roles. The outcomes of support provision were shown to affect not only individuals but also the collective network. However, while effective, community spaces currently lack organisational backing and resources available to informal communities are constrained. Findings drawn from this study, which we believe are applicable to a broader, international context, are three-fold. Firstly, it is recommended that informal support communities clearly define purpose and create multiple channels to ensure that all participants can meet their needs. Secondly, the benefits of participation to organisations should be further explored. Finally, the use of social network analysis as a method in this study has provided significant insights into the communication patterns and activities of the community under study. Future use of SNA in similar studies may provide further insight into the effectiveness and interactions of community-based support methods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mythreyi Velmurugan
- School of Information Systems, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Jason Watson
- School of Information Systems, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Patricia Obst
- School of Psychology and Counselling, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Chun Ouyang
- School of Psychology and Counselling, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
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Atkinson T, Bray J, Williamson T. 'You're in a new game and you don't know the rules: Preparing carers to care'. Dementia (London) 2022; 21:2128-2143. [PMID: 35801283 PMCID: PMC9483701 DOI: 10.1177/14713012221112242] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Aim Being an informal carer for a person living with dementia can be a demanding role which
can have detrimental effects on personal well-being and affect a person’s ability to
provide care for their loved one. This evaluation of support courses, offered by a
leading UK charity dedicated to dementia family carers, highlights the impact of
training to support the caring role. Setting Participants completed booklets at the training venue and subsequently online or by
post. Interviews with participants took place by telephone. Participants: 84
participants completed booklets containing measures which generated quantitative data
whilst 19 family carers participated in qualitative telephone interviews. Design A mixed methods approach was taken using booklets of validated measures to capture
quantitative data, including capture of demographic information, together with
semi-structured interviews conducted by telephone which were recorded, transcribed and
subsequently analysed using thematic analysis. Results Overall, both the quantitative and qualitative analysis demonstrate that attending the
carers support courses had a positive impact on carers with improvements being
maintained over time. Outcomes indicated that carers generally remained in a better
physical, mental and emotional situation than that experienced before the course. Conclusion Being prepared for the trajectory of the caring role when providing care for a person
living with dementia can help informal carers to be better prepared, better supported
and better informed. Evidence gained from this evaluation demonstrates the impact of the
courses and adds to the current weak evidence base relating to dementia courses aimed at
preparing carers to care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Teresa Atkinson
- The Association for Dementia Studies, 8709University of Worcester, UK
| | - Jennifer Bray
- The Association for Dementia Studies, 8709University of Worcester, UK
| | - Tracey Williamson
- 1507Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board, Bangor, UK; 8709University of Worcester, UK
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26
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Muldrew DHL, Fee A, Coates V. Impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on family carers in the community: A scoping review. Health Soc Care Community 2022; 30:1275-1285. [PMID: 34888980 DOI: 10.1111/hsc.13677] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2021] [Revised: 11/23/2021] [Accepted: 11/26/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic has led to the closure or reduction in support services for family carers, resulting in increased social isolation and stress for this population. The current scoping review aimed to identify the impact of COVID-19 upon carers and support provided for them during the pandemic. Four online databases (CINAHL, Medline, PsycINFO and PubMed) were systematically searched on 16th December 2020 and updated on 16th July 2021 for articles written in English and published after January 2020, focused on the carer and the impact of COVID-19. Google scholar and reference lists of relevant papers were checked, and key authors were contacted for further relevant information. The database searches identified 976 citations, which resulted in 670 unique articles following the removal of duplicates. Title and abstract screening identified 63 articles for full-text review, 11 of which were subsequently excluded, leaving 52 articles which were subject to inductive thematic analysis. Four key themes were identified. Whilst a number of issues were identified that were exacerbated by the pandemic, others directly resulting from it were revealed. Few studies discussed support measures for carers and only one trial evaluated an intervention. This review identifies the impact of COVID-19 on carers, but there is a dearth of evidence to inform appropriate tailored support. Governments need to identify carers as a priority group in social care reform and commission co-produced, evidence and experience informed pathways to reinstate support services, potentially modelled on pandemic plans following the example currently being considered for the paid healthcare workforce.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deborah H L Muldrew
- Institute of Nursing and Health Research, Ulster University, Newtownabbey, Northern Ireland, UK
| | - Anne Fee
- Institute of Nursing and Health Research, Ulster University, Newtownabbey, Northern Ireland, UK
| | - Vivien Coates
- Institute of Nursing and Health Research, Ulster University, Londonderry, Northern Ireland, UK
- Western Health & Social Care Trust, Trust Headquarters, Altnagelvin Area Hospital, Londonderry, Northern Ireland, UK
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Crowther J, Horton S, Wilson K, Lloyd-Williams M. A UK qualitative study of living and dying with dementia in the last year of life. Palliat Care Soc Pract 2022; 16:26323524221096691. [PMID: 35757158 PMCID: PMC9218895 DOI: 10.1177/26323524221096691] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2021] [Accepted: 04/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Dementia is a life-limiting illness, but the trajectory of dying can be difficult to establish and care at end of life can be variable and problematic. Methods: This UK study was carried out to explore the end-of-life-care experiences of people with dementia from the perspective of their family carers. In-depth interviews were conducted with 40 bereaved family carers of people with dementia. Results: Forty family carers (male n = 9, female n = 31) age range: 18–86 years were interviewed. Issues with poor communication were common. The hard work of caring and issues regarding unpredictability of living and dying with dementia were also commonplace within the study. Only three patients were referred for specialist palliative care support at the end of life, all of whom had a dual diagnosis of dementia and cancer. Conclusion: This qualitative study has identified that there are several gaps in the end-of-life care of people with dementia, and frequently, there is poor communication during the last year of life. The need for high-quality integrated care for people dying with dementia with appropriate support during the last year of life is identified. COVID-19 has disproportionately affected people with dementia, and in the post-pandemic era, there is an urgent need to ensure every person dying with dementia is supported to die in their preferred place and that family members are supported and enabled to be treated as the ‘expert’ in terms of their knowledge of their relatives’ care and preferences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacqueline Crowther
- Academic Palliative and Supportive Care Studies Group (APSCSG) and Primary Care and Mental Health, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | | | - Kenneth Wilson
- Department of Psychiatry, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - Mari Lloyd-Williams
- Professor, Primary Care and Mental Health, Liverpool Health Partners and University of Liverpool, Brownlow Hill, Liverpool L69 3GB, UK
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28
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Naughton-Doe R, Moran N, Wakeman E, Wilberforce M, Bennett L, Webber M. Interventions that support unpaid carers of adult mental health inpatients: a scoping review. J Ment Health 2022:1-17. [PMID: 35532039 DOI: 10.1080/09638237.2022.2069702] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2021] [Revised: 02/16/2022] [Accepted: 02/23/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Unpaid carers of adult mental health inpatients often lack support for their well-being and feel excluded from decisions about patient care. AIMS This scoping review aimed to: synthesise the peer-reviewed literature evaluating the outcomes of brief interventions for unpaid carers of adult mental health inpatients, identify transferable lessons for evidenced-informed practice, and establish future research priorities. METHODS PRISMA scoping review guidelines were followed to search 12 databases using predefined search terms. Two reviewers independently screened papers and applied exclusion/inclusion criteria. Studies were included if they evaluated the impact or outcomes of interventions. Two reviewers extracted data and assessed study quality. Data were synthesised to categorise types of interventions and evidence for their outcomes. RESULTS 16 papers met the inclusion criteria, and five types of interventions were identified: those that aimed to (1) increase carer involvement in inpatient care; (2) facilitate organisational change to increase carer support and involvement; (3) provide carers with support; (4) deliver psychoeducation and offer support; and (5) reduce carer stress and improve coping skills. CONCLUSIONS Whilst evidence of intervention effectiveness was promising, the quality of studies was generally weak. More research is needed to develop an evidence-informed approach to supporting carers during inpatient stays.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruth Naughton-Doe
- International Centre for Mental Health Social Research, Department of Social Policy and Social Work, University of York, York, England
| | - Nicola Moran
- International Centre for Mental Health Social Research, Department of Social Policy and Social Work, University of York, York, England
| | | | - Mark Wilberforce
- Social Policy Research Unit, Department of Social Policy and Social Work, University of York, York, UK
| | | | - Martin Webber
- International Centre for Mental Health Social Research, Department of Social Policy and Social Work, University of York, York, England
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29
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Lafferty A, Phillips D, Dowling‐Hetherington L, Fahy M, Moloney B, Duffy C, Paul G, Fealy G, Kroll T. Colliding worlds: Family carers' experiences of balancing work and care in Ireland during the COVID-19 pandemic. Health Soc Care Community 2022; 30:1133-1142. [PMID: 33891356 PMCID: PMC8251184 DOI: 10.1111/hsc.13365] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2020] [Revised: 01/25/2021] [Accepted: 02/26/2021] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
The Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic public health and social protective measures imposed globally resulted in partial or full closure of key services and supports for services and supports for people with a disability, chronic illness or age-related dependency. This caused huge disruption to care provision and family carers were relied upon to assume this care at home. Many family carers, including those in employment, found themselves navigating additional care responsibilities without 'usual levels' of support from family, friends, work, school, day care services, homecare and community services. The purpose of this study was to examine the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on family carers, their employment and care-giving responsibilities, through the lens of the Conservation of Resources (COR) theory (Hobfoll, 1989). Adopting a qualitative research approach, 16 family carers (14 females, 2 males) who were in employment prior to the onset of or during the pandemic, participated in an in-depth, semi-structured telephone or online video interview between June and September 2020. Interviews lasted between 45 and 100 min, were audio-recorded and transcribed verbatim. A thematic analysis of the interview data identified four main themes: colliding worlds; navigating unchartered waters alone; opportunity despite adversity and the relentless unknowing. Findings indicate that the onset of the pandemic resulted in the sudden loss of valued resources, which disrupted routines and caused care and work life domains to become intrinsically intertwined. Consistent with the main principles of the COR theory, adapting and transitioning to different ways of working and caring with depleted resources and supports, generated considerable stress for family carers and impacted their well-being. The implications for employers, healthcare providers, policy makers and other key stakeholders are considered, to enable family carers to successfully reconcile work with care and protect their well-being, as the pandemic continues to unfold and in the event of future societal crises.
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30
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Gridley K, Parker G. Specialist nursing case management support for carers of people with dementia: A qualitative study comparing experiences of carers with and without Admiral Nursing. Health Soc Care Community 2022; 30:e668-e676. [PMID: 34028916 DOI: 10.1111/hsc.13437] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2020] [Revised: 03/24/2021] [Accepted: 04/28/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Carers of people with dementia can experience reduced health and well-being, but little is known about how best to support them. There is some evidence to suggest that case management may improve outcomes for carers but less evidence about the features of case management services that can effectively support carers of people with dementia. Admiral Nursing operates a case management approach staffed by specialist nurses and is the only service of its kind in the United Kingdom dedicated to helping people with dementia and their carers. This paper reports qualitative findings from a mixed methods study of Admiral Nursing. For the qualitative strand of the project, data were collected in focus groups and in-depth interviews with carers of people with dementia (n = 35) and analysed thematically using the framework approach. The aim of this analysis was to understand differences between the experiences of the carers in our sample with and without Admiral Nursing, applying Freeman's model of continuity of care (Freeman et al., Continuity of care, 2000). Participants who had received Admiral Nursing were recruited from two geographical locations and carers without experience of this service were recruited from two different areas. We found that carers in our sample felt 'supported' in circumstances where they received an ongoing service from an Admiral Nurse or other professional with expertise in dementia who was able to develop a meaningful relationship with them over time. We conclude that ongoing support, expertise in dementia and a meaningful relationship are key features of relationship continuity common in carers' reports of feeling supported. Specialist nurses are well placed to provide this continuity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kate Gridley
- Social Policy Research Unit, University of York, York, UK
| | - Gillian Parker
- Social Policy Research Unit, University of York, York, UK
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31
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Gore N, Bradshaw J, Hastings R, Sweeney J, Austin D. Early positive approaches to support (E-PAtS): Qualitative experiences of a new support programme for family caregivers of young children with intellectual and developmental disabilities. J Appl Res Intellect Disabil 2022; 35:889-899. [PMID: 35289031 PMCID: PMC9311085 DOI: 10.1111/jar.12993] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2021] [Revised: 02/01/2022] [Accepted: 02/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Early Positive Approaches to Support (E-PAtS) is a co-produced and co-facilitated group programme that aims to provide early years support to family caregivers of children with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities. METHOD Thirty-five caregivers who had attended E-PAtS groups took part in individual interviews or focus groups. Caregiver experiences concerning attendance of E-PAtS were explored, in relation to process variables and perceived outcomes. Interviews were thematically analysed. RESULTS Three major themes were identified: our group, evolving emotions, and positive approaches. Being with and being supported by other families was very important to caregivers. Families reported increased confidence and greater realisation of the need for self-care. Children were reported to show fewer behaviours that challenge and increases in adaptive skills. Findings corresponded to mechanisms and outcomes in the E-PAtS logic model. CONCLUSION E-PAtS shows promise as one way families and children with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities can access early years support.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nick Gore
- Tizard Centre, Cornwallis North East, University of Kent, Canterbury, Kent, UK
| | - Jill Bradshaw
- Tizard Centre, Cornwallis North East, University of Kent, Canterbury, Kent, UK
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Page B, Lee ACH, Harrop EJ, Beale T, Sharrard A, Yeung N, Vincent CA. Coproducing a library of videos to support families caring for children with gastrostomies: A mixed-methods evaluation with family carers and clinicians. Health Expect 2022; 25:1038-1047. [PMID: 35141999 PMCID: PMC9122434 DOI: 10.1111/hex.13449] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2021] [Revised: 01/13/2022] [Accepted: 01/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Many families now perform specialist medical procedures at home. Families need appropriate training and support to do this. The aim of this study was to evaluate a library of videos, coproduced with parents and healthcare professionals, to support and educate families caring for a child with a gastrostomy. Methods A mixed‐methods online survey evaluating the videos was completed by 43 family carers who care for children with gastrostomies and 33 healthcare professionals (community‐based nurses [n = 16], paediatricians [n = 6], dieticians [n = 6], hospital‐based nurses [n = 4], paediatric surgeon [n = 1]) from the United Kingdom. Participants watched a sample of videos, rated statements on the videos and reflected on how the videos could be best used in practice. Results Both family carers and healthcare professionals perceived the video library as a valuable resource for parents and strongly supported the use of videos in practice. All healthcare professionals and 98% (n = 42) of family carers agreed they would recommend the videos to other families. Family carers found the videos empowering and easy to follow and valued the mixture of healthcare professionals and families featured in the videos. Participants gave clear recommendations for how different video topics should fit within the existing patient pathway. Discussion Families and healthcare professionals perceived the videos to be an extremely useful resource for parents, supporting them practically and emotionally. Similar coproduced educational materials are needed to support families who perform other medical procedures at home. Patient or Public Contribution Two parent representatives attended the research meetings from conception of the project and were involved in the design, conduct and dissemination of the surveys. The videos themselves were coproduced with several different families.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bethan Page
- Department of Experimental Psychology, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Alex C H Lee
- Department of Paediatrics, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, UK
| | | | | | - Alison Sharrard
- Department of Paediatrics, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, UK
| | - Nick Yeung
- Department of Experimental Psychology, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Charles A Vincent
- Department of Experimental Psychology, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
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Fisher E, Crawley S, Sampson EL, Cooper C, Jones R, Anantapong K, Moore K. Practical and emotional preparation for death: A mixed methods study investigating experiences of family carers of people with dementia. Dementia (London) 2022; 21:934-956. [PMID: 35125034 PMCID: PMC9003776 DOI: 10.1177/14713012211066674] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Background When family carers are more prepared for the end of the life of a person they care for, they report improved bereavement outcomes. Few studies have explored how carers prepare for the death of a person with dementia. We aimed to explore how carers for people with all stages of dementia experience preparing for end of life care and death. Methods This was a mixed methods cross-sectional study. Family carers of people with dementia (n = 150) completed a structured interview with validated scales, alongside questions about death preparedness and advance decisions. A sub-sample (n = 16) completed qualitative interviews exploring their experiences of planning for end of life. We fitted logistic regression models to explore associations with preparedness, and thematically analysed qualitative data. Results We addressed practical and emotional preparation separately for 143 participants. Fifty seven percent of participants were very practically prepared for death, while only 29% were very emotionally prepared. Male carers were more likely than female carers to report being very emotionally and practically prepared. Higher engagement with healthcare professionals was associated with feeling very practically prepared; although we found that formal discussions of end of life care issues with healthcare professionals did not impact carers’ feelings of preparation. Higher levels of dementia severity and carer depression were associated with feeling very emotionally prepared. Three qualitative themes related to practical and emotional preparation were identified: (1) ambiguity and uncertainty; (2) support from the system; and (3) how death is perceived by the carer. Conclusions While most carers felt practically prepared for death, emotional preparation was much lower. Further research is needed to understand how engagement with healthcare professionals or other forms of social or emotional support could help carers, particularly female carers, to emotionally prepare for their relative’s death.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily Fisher
- Research Department of Clinical, Educational and Health Psychology, 4919University College London, London, UK
| | - Sophie Crawley
- Marie Curie Palliative Care Research Department, Division of Psychiatry, 325312University College London, London, UK
| | - Elizabeth L Sampson
- Marie Curie Palliative Care Research Department, Division of Psychiatry, 325312University College London, London, UK; Department of Psychological Medicine, Royal London Hospital, East London NHS Foundation Trust
| | - Claudia Cooper
- Marie Curie Palliative Care Research Department, Division of Psychiatry, 325312University College London, London, UK; Division of Psychiatry, 325312University College London, London, UK
| | - Rebecca Jones
- Division of Psychiatry, 325312University College London, London, UK
| | - Kanthee Anantapong
- Marie Curie Palliative Care Research Department, Division of Psychiatry, 325312University College London, London, UK; Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Prince of Songkla University, Thailand
| | - Kirsten Moore
- Marie Curie Palliative Care Research Department, Division of Psychiatry, 325312University College London, London, UK; National Ageing Research Institute, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
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Batchelor R, Gulshan S, Shritharan H, Williams E, Henderson C, Gillard S, Woodham LA, Cornelius V, Elkes J, Sin J. Perceived Acceptability and Experiences of a Digital Psychoeducation and Peer Support Intervention (COPe-support): Interview Study With Carers Supporting Individuals With Psychosis. J Med Internet Res 2022; 24:e27781. [PMID: 35107439 PMCID: PMC8851336 DOI: 10.2196/27781] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2021] [Revised: 05/21/2021] [Accepted: 11/30/2021] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Web-based mental health interventions offer a novel, accessible, and self-paced approach to care delivery to family carers (ie, relatives and close friends who support a loved one with psychosis). We coproduced COPe-support (Carers fOr People with Psychosis e-support), a psychoeducational intervention delivered via an enriched web-based learning environment with network support from professionals and peers. In addition to the rigorous investigation of the effectiveness of COPe-support on the well-being of carers and mental health outcomes, it is imperative to understand the experiences of using the web-based intervention by carers and its associated web-based implementation and facilitation strategies. Objective This study aims to explore the experiences of carers and perceived acceptability of COPe-support and its different components, how carers found engagement with COPe-support affected their own well-being and caregiving, and the ideas of carers for improving COPe-support and its delivery to inform any future wider implementation. Methods We conducted a qualitative study, individually interviewing 35 carers, following their use of COPe-support for 8 months through a web-based, randomized controlled trial across England. A semistructured guide with open-ended questions was used to explore the experiences of carers and perceived acceptability of the intervention and their ideas to improve the provision. All interviews were conducted remotely through mobile phones or internet communication media, audio recorded and transcribed verbatim. We used a thematic analysis framework to analyze the data. Results Three key themes were identified: remote, flexible, and personalized support; impacts on well-being and outlook on caregiving; and future implementation and integration with existing services. Overall, carers found COPe-support a flexible source of knowledge and support from professionals and peers that they could personalize to suit their own needs and convenience. Participants described gaining self-confidence, hope, and a sense of connectivity with others in a similar situation, which helped ameliorate isolation and perceived stigma. Most importantly, COPe-support promoted self-care among the carers themselves. Participants’ experiences, use, and activity on COPe-support varied greatly and differed among carers of various ages and levels of computer literacy. Conclusions Nearly all participants had a positive experience with COPe-support and supported its wider implementation as a beneficial adjunctive support resource for carers in the future. Any future scale-up of such an intervention needs to consider feedback from carers and suggestions for further improvement. These included having more graphics and audiovisual content materials, improving the navigation, and building in more interactional and customization options to suit various user styles, such as emoji reactions, live web-based chat, opting in and out of updates, and choosing the frequency of reminders. To ensure successful implementation, we should also consider factors pertinent to reaching more carers and integrating the web-based resources with other conventional services. Trial Registration International Standard Randomized Controlled Trial Number (ISRCTN) 89563420; https://www.isrctn.com/ISRCTN89563420 International Registered Report Identifier (IRRID) RR2-10.1186/s12888-020-02528-w
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel Batchelor
- Population Health Research Institute, St George's, University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Sarah Gulshan
- School of Psychology & Clinical Language Sciences, University of Reading, Reading, United Kingdom
| | - Halpana Shritharan
- School of Psychology & Clinical Language Sciences, University of Reading, Reading, United Kingdom
| | | | - Claire Henderson
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology & Neuroscience, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Steve Gillard
- School of Health Sciences, City, University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Luke A Woodham
- Centre for Technology in Education, St George's, University of London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Victoria Cornelius
- Imperial Clinical Trials Unit, School of Public Health, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Jack Elkes
- Imperial Clinical Trials Unit, School of Public Health, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Jacqueline Sin
- School of Health Sciences, City, University of London, London, United Kingdom
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Parkinson M, Carr SM, Abley C. Facilitating social coping-'seeking emotional and practical support from others'-as a critical strategy in maintaining the family care of people with dementia. Health Soc Care Community 2022; 30:558-569. [PMID: 32959461 DOI: 10.1111/hsc.13159] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2020] [Revised: 07/29/2020] [Accepted: 08/12/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to identify how the family care of people living with dementia could be supported to make reliance on family care sustainable in the long term despite the impact of stress. A Realist Evaluation (Pawson & Tilley, 1997) was conducted to investigate this aim. An initial review established 'coping' as a primary means of mediating stressors associated with caregiving. However, there was a need to specify which coping approaches/strategies are most effective. In-depth interviews were conducted with a purposive sample of family carers (n = 18) in a suburb in North East England from 2016 to 2017. Analysis of the data revealed 'social coping' (SC) that included an emotional support component as a critical mediator of family carer stress. Several key hindrances to the utilisation of SC, including underpinning causal factors, are explicated. Ways in which these hindrances might be overcome are discussed and guidelines introduced for how family carers, formal providers and practitioners can facilitate SC as a critical coping strategy in sustaining the family care of people with dementia over the long term.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark Parkinson
- Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, Northumbria University, Newcastle, UK
- Fuse, Centre for Translational Research in Public Health-a UK Clinical Research Collaboration Centre for Translational Research in Public Health &, NIHR School for Public Health Research (SPHR) Centre of Excellence, Institute of Health & Society, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle, UK
| | - S M Carr
- Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, Northumbria University, Newcastle, UK
- Fuse, Centre for Translational Research in Public Health-a UK Clinical Research Collaboration Centre for Translational Research in Public Health &, NIHR School for Public Health Research (SPHR) Centre of Excellence, Institute of Health & Society, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle, UK
| | - Clare Abley
- Institute of Health & Society, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle, UK
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Murphy C, de Laine C, Macaulay M, Avery M, Fader M. A qualitative study and preliminary model of living with dementia and incontinence at home: beyond containment. Age Ageing 2022; 51:6427234. [PMID: 34888621 PMCID: PMC8753012 DOI: 10.1093/ageing/afab221] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2021] [Revised: 08/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background most people living with dementia (PLWD) will develop incontinence problems with associated harmful consequences. Well-contained incontinence is often the main treatment goal. It would therefore be expected that poorly contained incontinence would have a negative impact. Aim to investigate differences in how well-contained or poorly contained incontinence impacts on the experience of living with incontinence for PLWD at home and their carers. Design secondary analysis of a qualitative study. Methods semi-structured interviews were undertaken with PLWD, carers and healthcare professionals (continence or dementia nurses). PLWD and carers were recruited via www.joindementiaresearch.nihr.ac.uk and via dementia/carer groups. Nurses were recruited via their employers. Interviews were recorded and transcribed verbatim. Framework analysis was used. Results forty-five people (twenty-six carers, two PLWD, nine continence nurses and eight dementia nurses) participated. Despite poorly contained incontinence, some PLWD/carer dyads appeared relatively unaffected by incontinence. Conversely, one or both members of some dyads who achieved good containment found incontinence care highly challenging. Four themes were identified, together forming a preliminary model of incontinence containment and impact, as follows: Conclusion reliable containment is an important goal for PLWD living at home and their carers, but it is not the only goal. Other factors, such as behaviours that challenge or carer coping strategies, can mean that even well-contained incontinence can have a negative impact. This paper proposes a preliminary model for evaluation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catherine Murphy
- School of Health Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | | | - Margaret Macaulay
- School of Health Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - Miriam Avery
- School of Health Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - Mandy Fader
- School of Health Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
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Smaling HJA, Tilburgs B, Achterberg WP, Visser M. The Impact of Social Distancing Due to the COVID-19 Pandemic on People with Dementia, Family Carers and Healthcare Professionals: A Qualitative Study. Int J Environ Res Public Health 2022; 19:ijerph19010519. [PMID: 35010779 PMCID: PMC8744737 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19010519] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2021] [Revised: 12/30/2021] [Accepted: 12/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Social distancing measures imposed because of the COVID-19 pandemic presented challenges to the health and wellbeing of people with dementia, family carers, and healthcare professionals. This study investigated the impact of these measures on all involved in the care for people with dementia. For this qualitative study, 20 family carers and 20 healthcare professionals from home care and long-term care (LTC) participated in a semi-structured interview. Interviews were analysed using an inductive thematic analysis approach. For people with dementia, the social distancing measures resulted in a deterioration of physical health. The impact on their emotional state and behaviour depended on the stage of dementia. Family carers experienced difficulty coping with visiting restrictions, anxiety regarding safety, and changes in carer burden. Healthcare professionals had an increased workload, and felt guilty about adhering to restrictive measures. Differences between home care and LTC were reported (i.e., societal initiatives focussed on LTC, scarcity of activities for community-dwelling people with dementia, use of personal protective equipment more intrusive for home care). The social distancing measures had a negative impact on persons with dementia, their family carers, and healthcare professionals. More attention is needed for community-dwelling people with dementia and family carers in times of social isolation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hanneke J. A. Smaling
- Department of Public Health and Primary Care, Leiden University Medical Center, P.O. Box 9600, 2300 RC Leiden, The Netherlands; (H.J.A.S.); (W.P.A.)
| | - Bram Tilburgs
- Department of Intensive Care Medicine, Radboud University Medical Center, Radboud Institute for Health Science, P.O. Box 9101, 6500 HB Nijmegen, The Netherlands;
| | - Wilco P. Achterberg
- Department of Public Health and Primary Care, Leiden University Medical Center, P.O. Box 9600, 2300 RC Leiden, The Netherlands; (H.J.A.S.); (W.P.A.)
| | - Mandy Visser
- Department of Public Health and Primary Care, Leiden University Medical Center, P.O. Box 9600, 2300 RC Leiden, The Netherlands; (H.J.A.S.); (W.P.A.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +31-71-528655
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Prato L, Abley C, Adamson J. Exploring online identity construction for the caregivers of adults living with dementia and the value of interactions with health and social care professionals. Health Soc Care Community 2022; 30:295-306. [PMID: 33894073 DOI: 10.1111/hsc.13403] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2020] [Revised: 03/05/2021] [Accepted: 03/21/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Becoming an informal caregiver for an adult living with dementia has been shown to have a significant impact upon the conception of identity. This study aimed to identify how identity is constructed online amongst caregivers of individuals living with dementia and how healthcare interactions can influence identity development through the analysis of online web blogs. Sixteen online blogs (172 entries) were selected through purposive and snowball sampling, and discourse analysis was used to analyse online identity construction for informal caregivers of adults living with dementia. Six areas of online identity construction were identified: changing family role; powerful expert social campaigner; being an advocate; guardian of their relative's selfhood; sustaining creative and spiritual individuality and wider community member in online and real life. Further to this, the importance of health and social care service interactions in the development of caregiver identity revealed that professionals must ensure person-centred service contacts for caregivers. This is a challenging task in the pandemic climate where interactions between health and social care professionals and caregivers are limited due to isolation measures. It is evident that the blog format can provide a forum through which the identity of the caregiver of an adult living with dementia can evolve. The six areas of identity construction reveal the multifaceted nature of identity for the caregiver and the value of belonging to an online community both in relation to identity construction and support. This finding is especially applicable in the current pandemic when accessing a face-to-face community is challenging for caregivers who may be shielding or living in isolation. The findings of this research can aid health and social care professionals in understanding the development of caregiver identity and in providing appropriate support during service interactions, on accessing virtual and face to face community support.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Prato
- Newcastle University, Newcastle Upon Tyne, UK
| | - Clare Abley
- Newcastle University, Newcastle Upon Tyne, UK
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Bindley K, Lewis J, Travaglia J, DiGiacomo M. Caring and Grieving in the Context of Social and Structural Inequity: Experiences of Australian Carers With Social Welfare Needs. Qual Health Res 2022; 32:64-79. [PMID: 34836471 DOI: 10.1177/10497323211046875] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Caring for and bereavement following the death of someone with a life-limiting illness may precipitate social welfare needs related to income support and housing. Nevertheless, carer experiences of welfare policy and institutions have not received significant attention. This qualitative study explored experiences of carers who navigated social welfare policy while caring for someone with a life-limiting illness, and in bereavement. In-depth interviews were conducted with 12 bereaved carers in an area associated with socioeconomic disadvantage. Carers differentially encountered precariousness, with some experiencing structural vulnerability. These positionalities appeared to be shaped by policy and process-related burdens, perceptions of the welfare state, and degrees of legitimisation or disenfranchisement of forms of capital and coping orientations. Recommendations that may improve carer experience were identified. Implications relate to the need for an expanded conceptualisation of vulnerability in health and welfare practice, policy that authentically validates caring and grieving, and upstream strategies that address inequity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristin Bindley
- Improving Palliative, Aged and Chronic Care through Clinical Research and Translation (IMPACCT), Faculty of Health, 110561The University of Technology, Ultimo, NSW, Australia
- Supportive and Palliative Care, 1760Western Sydney Local Health District, Mount Druitt NSW, Australia
| | - Joanne Lewis
- Faculty of Health, 110561The University of Technology Sydney, Ultimo, NSW, Australia
- Faculty of Health,110446University of Canberra, Bruce, ACT, Australia
| | - Joanne Travaglia
- Faculty of Health, 110561The University of Technology Sydney, Ultimo, NSW, Australia
| | - Michelle DiGiacomo
- Improving Palliative, Aged and Chronic Care through Clinical Research and Translation (IMPACCT), Faculty of Health, 110561The University of Technology, Ultimo, NSW, Australia
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Cousins E, de Vries K, Harrison Dening K. ' Four walls and a garden': Exploring the experiences of families affected by dementia during the COVID-19 pandemic. Dementia (London) 2021; 21:810-829. [PMID: 34918956 PMCID: PMC8995930 DOI: 10.1177/14713012211059021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/02/2022]
Abstract
Introduction When the first national COVID-19 lockdown came into effect in the UK in March
2020, life changed significantly. Some services and social contacts for
people with dementia and their families stopped, while others, for example,
peer support, moved online. This research explored the experiences of
families affected by dementia during the pandemic, specifically those living
in the community. Aims In partnership with a community dementia charity, this study sought to gain
an understanding of the experiences of people with dementia and family
carers during the COVID-19 pandemic and explore the impact and implications
of lockdown on people with dementia and family carers. Methods This was a qualitative study that used semi-structured interviews to collect
data from people with dementia and family carers. Interviews were conducted
online via video call, individually or within caring dyads. Initially, data
were coded, analysed and themed inductively. Additionally, social disruption
and social division theories were used to deductively identify patterns in
the data to enhance understanding. Findings Six distinct themes were identified from the inductive analysis: Routine:
‘busy life before lockdown’; Isolation: ‘four
walls and a garden’; Living with restrictions:
‘treading on eggshells’; Discovering positives:
‘you are in the same boat’; Easing lockdown:
‘raring to go’; Heightened uncertainty: ‘things
have changed’. Illustrative examples of symptoms of social
disruption and division were identified within the data: frustration,
democratic disconnection, fragmentation, polarisation and escalation. Conclusion Experiences of people with dementia and family carers during the pandemic
were mixed, resulting in hopes and worries for the future. Social disruption
and social division are relevant frameworks for analysing experiences of
COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily Cousins
- Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, School of Nursing and Midwifery, RinggoldID:4487De Montfort University, Leicester, UK
| | - Kay de Vries
- Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, School of Nursing and Midwifery, RinggoldID:4487De Montfort University, Leicester, UK
| | - Karen Harrison Dening
- Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, School of Nursing and Midwifery, 4487De Montfort University, Leicester, UK; Dementia UK, London, UK
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Nielsen TR, Nielsen DS, Waldemar G. A personalized dementia care intervention for family carers from minority ethnic groups in Denmark: A pilot study. Dementia (London) 2021; 21:477-488. [PMID: 34605285 PMCID: PMC8811331 DOI: 10.1177/14713012211046597] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND There is a growing number of people with dementia in minority ethnic groups in Denmark. Support for the increasing number of family carers from minority ethnic groups is crucial, as caring for a relative with dementia may negatively affect the carer's health and quality of life. The aim of this study was to determine the feasibility of a personalized intervention for family carers from minority ethnic groups. The intervention was a modified version of a culturally sensitive case-management program developed in Australia which had been shown to improve carers' sense of competence in managing dementia and their mental well-being. METHODS A small pilot trial was used to examine the feasibility and preliminary efficacy of the intervention. Feasibility indicators included data on recruitment, retention, adherence, and fidelity. Acceptability and suitability of the intervention was explored in post-intervention interviews with family carers, and baseline and follow-up scores for outcome measures were examined. RESULTS Ten (30%) of 33 eligible family carers consented to participate in the study, but three were lost to follow-up and seven (70%) family carers completed the trial. Intervention fidelity, acceptance, and satisfaction were high. Results for outcome measures indicated that the intervention may improve family carers' sense of competence by helping them cope better with challenges relating to caring and managing dementia and improved their satisfaction with primary care services. CONCLUSIONS The results suggest that the intervention is feasible and worth exploring for family carers of people with dementia from minority ethnic groups in Denmark.
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Affiliation(s)
- T Rune Nielsen
- Danish Dementia Research Centre, Copenhagen University Hospital, 53146Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Dorthe S Nielsen
- Migrant Health Clinic, Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark.,Centre for Global Health, 6174University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark.,Department of Geriatric Medicine, Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark
| | - Gunhild Waldemar
- Danish Dementia Research Centre, Copenhagen University Hospital, 53146Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
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Abstract
This study explores the experience of communication regarding the care of children with cancer, from the perspective of family carers, children and health professionals in occupied Palestinian territory. This study employed an ethnographic collective qualitative case study approach, which was applied in one oncology unit in a Palestinian hospital. Participant observation and semi-structured interviews were used. This study only reports the findings of the interviews with the participating family carers. Fifteen interviews were conducted with family carers (n = 14 children), namely mothers (n = 7), grandmothers (n = 7) and a father (n = 1). The findings reveal that styles of information were given to children by their family carers: minimal/practical information, gradual information, false information, reassuring information and several sources of information. The term cancer was avoided in the discussion of the disease to ameliorate the negative effect of this term, which is considered taboo in the studied culture. Despite the recent trend emphasising the importance of parents communicating openly with their children with cancer, the findings of this study suggest that such open communication is not accepted by all parents. Hence, a case-by-case strategy could be adopted to treat each child in a way that is individual to that child and their culture.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maha M Atout
- Nursing School, 74428Philadelphia University, Jordan
| | - Bernie Carter
- Children's Nursing, Faculty of Health, Social Care and Medicine, 6249Edge Hill University, UK
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Bell L, Anderson K, Girgis A, Aoun S, Cunningham J, Wakefield CE, Shahid S, Smith AB, Diaz A, Lindsay D, Masa A, Garvey G. "We Have to Be Strong Ourselves": Exploring the Support Needs of Informal Carers of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander People with Cancer. Int J Environ Res Public Health 2021; 18:ijerph18147281. [PMID: 34299731 PMCID: PMC8303635 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18147281] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2021] [Revised: 07/02/2021] [Accepted: 07/03/2021] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
Informal carers provide an important role in supporting people with cancer. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples experience higher cancer mortality than other Australians. To date, very little is known about the support needs of carers of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander adults with cancer. This article explored these needs through a qualitative study. Twenty-two semi-structured qualitative interviews and one focus group were conducted with carers of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander adults with cancer (n = 12) and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cancer survivors (n = 15) from Queensland, Australia. Half of the carers interviewed were Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander Australians. Interviews were transcribed, coded and thematically analysed following an interpretive phenomenological approach. Thematic analysis of carer and survivor interviews revealed four key themes relating to carers’ needs: managing multiple responsibilities; maintaining the carer’s own health and wellbeing; accessing practical support and information; and engaging with the health system. Within these overarching themes, multiple needs were identified including specific needs relevant for carers of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, such as advocating for the patient; accessing Indigenous support services and health workers; and ensuring that the cultural needs of the person are recognised and respected. Identifying the needs of informal carers of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cancer patients will enable greater understanding of the support that carers require and inform the development of strategies to meet these areas of need.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lorraine Bell
- Menzies School of Health Research, Charles Darwin University, Casuarina, NT 0810, Australia; (K.A.); (J.C.); (A.D.); (D.L.); (A.M.); (G.G.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +61-7-3169-4206
| | - Kate Anderson
- Menzies School of Health Research, Charles Darwin University, Casuarina, NT 0810, Australia; (K.A.); (J.C.); (A.D.); (D.L.); (A.M.); (G.G.)
| | - Afaf Girgis
- Centre for Oncology Education and Research Translation (CONCERT), Ingham Institute for Applied Medical Research, South Western Sydney Clinical School, University of New South Wales, Liverpool, NSW 2170, Australia; (A.G.); (A.B.S.)
| | - Samar Aoun
- Public Health Palliative Care Unit, School of Psychology and Public Health, La Trobe University, Bundoora, VIC 3086, Australia;
- Perron Institute for Neurological and Translational Science, Nedlands, WA 6009, Australia
| | - Joan Cunningham
- Menzies School of Health Research, Charles Darwin University, Casuarina, NT 0810, Australia; (K.A.); (J.C.); (A.D.); (D.L.); (A.M.); (G.G.)
| | - Claire E. Wakefield
- Kids Cancer Centre, Sydney Children’s Hospital, Sydney, NSW 2031, Australia;
- School of Women’s and Children’s Health, University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia
| | - Shaouli Shahid
- Centre for Aboriginal Studies, Curtin University, Bentley, WA 6102, Australia;
| | - Allan Ben Smith
- Centre for Oncology Education and Research Translation (CONCERT), Ingham Institute for Applied Medical Research, South Western Sydney Clinical School, University of New South Wales, Liverpool, NSW 2170, Australia; (A.G.); (A.B.S.)
| | - Abbey Diaz
- Menzies School of Health Research, Charles Darwin University, Casuarina, NT 0810, Australia; (K.A.); (J.C.); (A.D.); (D.L.); (A.M.); (G.G.)
| | - Daniel Lindsay
- Menzies School of Health Research, Charles Darwin University, Casuarina, NT 0810, Australia; (K.A.); (J.C.); (A.D.); (D.L.); (A.M.); (G.G.)
| | - Adam Masa
- Menzies School of Health Research, Charles Darwin University, Casuarina, NT 0810, Australia; (K.A.); (J.C.); (A.D.); (D.L.); (A.M.); (G.G.)
| | - Gail Garvey
- Menzies School of Health Research, Charles Darwin University, Casuarina, NT 0810, Australia; (K.A.); (J.C.); (A.D.); (D.L.); (A.M.); (G.G.)
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Kelly C, McConkey R, Craig S. Family carers of people with intellectual disabilities in Ireland: Changes over 10 years. J Intellect Disabil 2021; 25:183-191. [PMID: 31370762 DOI: 10.1177/1744629519866313] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Data were obtained on nearly 20,000 Irish children and adults living in various family care arrangements in 2007, 2012, and 2017. Over 10 years, the percentage increase in adult persons living with family carers was three times higher than the rise in the general population, with people aged 50 years and over having the highest proportional increase. Also a greater number of persons aged 40-49 group continued to live with both parents in 2017 (47%) compared to 2007 (33%). However, there was marked variation across the nine Community Health Organization areas in the proportions of adults living with family carers (from 49% to 62%). In the coming decades, increased provision will be required in both the quantum and type of supports provided to families so as to sustain their caring role but ensuring equity of provision nationally will be a major challenge.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Sarah Craig
- National Health Information Systems, Ireland
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Murphy C, De Laine C, Macaulay M, Hislop Lennie K, Fader M. Problems faced by people living at home with dementia and incontinence: causes, consequences and potential solutions. Age Ageing 2021; 50:944-954. [PMID: 33320926 DOI: 10.1093/ageing/afaa262] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2020] [Revised: 10/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND many people living at home with dementia (PLWD) also have poorly managed toilet-use or incontinence problems with damaging consequences for both people with dementia, unpaid carers and healthcare professionals (HCPs). Currently, there are no theoretically or empirically based interventions to help. The underlying causes and subsequent consequences of these problems need to be fully understood in order to support the development of interventions that have the potential to decrease the impact of these problems on people's lives. AIM to establish the range of causes, consequences and potential solutions of toilet-use and incontinence problems for PLWD and their carers. METHOD a qualitative design was used. Semi-structured interviews were undertaken with PLWD, carers and HCPs (continence or dementia nurses). PLWD and carers were recruited via www.joindementiaresearch.nihr.ac.uk and via dementia/carer groups. Nurses were recruited via their employers. Interviews were digitally recorded and transcribed verbatim. Framework analysis was used to interpret the data to address the goal of the research. RESULTS in total, 45 people (26 unpaid carers, 2 people with dementia, 9 continence and 8 dementia HCPs) took part. The causes of toilet-use and incontinence problems were reported to be multi-faceted and complex including those related to dementia (e.g. lack of insight into toileting needs or how to use the toilet), those which are physical (e.g. existing bladder or bowel issues or poor mobility), psychosocial (e.g. inability to ask for help for incontinence) or societal (e.g. fear of stigma), or related to care systems (e.g. lack of expert knowledge) or products (e.g. poor fit or confusing for users). Consequences included harms to physical and mental health, social isolation, increased carer workload and care system resource implications. CONCLUSION this study provides the first detailed characterisation of the causes and consequences of and potential solutions for incontinence problems for PLWD at home and their carers. Multifaceted and complex problems were identified, layering dementia, physical, psychosocial, societal and care system factors and highlighting contextual variation. This new knowledge provides the essential basis for the (now underway) development of urgently needed practical and implementable interventions for this underserved population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catherine Murphy
- School of Health Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton SO16 6YD, UK
| | - Christine De Laine
- School of Health Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton SO16 6YD, UK
| | - Margaret Macaulay
- School of Health Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton SO16 6YD, UK
| | - Kelly Hislop Lennie
- School of Health Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton SO16 6YD, UK
| | - Mandy Fader
- School of Health Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton SO16 6YD, UK
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Krysinska K, Andriessen K, Ozols I, Reifels L, Robinson J, Pirkis J. Effectiveness of Psychosocial Interventions for Family Members and Other Informal Support Persons of Individuals Who Have Made a Suicide Attempt. Crisis 2021; 43:245-260. [PMID: 33944608 DOI: 10.1027/0227-5910/a000776] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Background: Individuals recovering from a suicide attempt may benefit from support provided by informal carers, that is, family members and other support persons, who may require support themselves. Aims: This systematic review aims to identify and synthesize available literature on the effectiveness of psychosocial interventions for this carer population. Method: A search of peer-reviewed literature in five databases was carried out. Studies using any design were eligible and results were synthesized using a narrative review. Results: Eight articles reporting on seven quantitative studies met the eligibility criteria. This included three studies on interventions designed specifically for informal carers and four studies on interventions designed for persons who have made a suicide attempt, and which involved their informal carers. Overall, informal carers were satisfied with support and psychosocial interventions they received. Interventions were related to some improvements in carers' mental health outcomes, lowered burden, and improved ability to provide care. There were mixed results regarding family functioning and quality of life. Limitations: No studies from lower- and middle-income countries were identified and the small number of heterogeneous studies precluded conducting a meta-analysis. Conclusion: Given the low number of studies and their overall poor quality, this review can only draw preliminary conclusions. More high-quality intervention studies are needed to formulate recommendations for effective psychosocial support for family members and other informal support persons after a suicide attempt.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karolina Krysinska
- Centre for Mental Health, Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Karl Andriessen
- Centre for Mental Health, Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Ingrid Ozols
- Mental Health at Work, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Lennart Reifels
- Centre for Mental Health, Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | | | - Jane Pirkis
- Centre for Mental Health, Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
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Bindley K, Lewis J, Travaglia J, DiGiacomo M. Social welfare needs of bereaved Australian carers: Implications of insights from palliative care and welfare workers. Health Soc Care Community 2021; 29:631-642. [PMID: 33704840 DOI: 10.1111/hsc.13339] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2020] [Revised: 11/09/2020] [Accepted: 02/11/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
An individual and psychological emphasis has influenced practice and research on bereavement following informal care provision in the context of life-limiting illness. Consideration of the potential for bereavement to be shaped by intersecting social and structural inequities is needed; and should include an understanding of interactions with government institutions and social policy. This qualitative study employed interpretive description to explore the way in which palliative care workers and welfare sector workers perceive and approach experiences and needs of bereaved carers receiving government income support or housing assistance in Western Sydney, an area associated with recognised socioeconomic disadvantage. A total of 21 palliative care workers within a public health service and welfare workers from two government social welfare services participated in in-depth interviews. Data were analysed using framework analysis. Participants highlighted social welfare policy and related interactions that may impact bereavement, potentially related to financial, housing and employment precariousness. Personal, interpersonal and structural factors perceived to shape the navigation of welfare needs were explored, alongside needed professional and structural changes envisioned by workers. With limited forms of capital, vulnerably positioned carers may encounter difficulties that heighten their precariousness in bereavement. Transactional organisational cultures alongside health and welfare agencies that function in a siloed manner appear to contribute to structural burden for carers, following death due to life-limiting illness. Palliative care and welfare workers also associated elements of their work with bereaved carers with their own experiences of helplessness, frustration and distress. Findings point to a need for the development of interagency strategies in addition to policy underpinned by more nuanced understandings of vulnerability in bereavement, post-caring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristin Bindley
- Faculty of Health, The University of Technology Sydney, Ultimo, NSW, Australia
- Supportive and Palliative Care, Western Sydney Local Health District, Mt Druitt, NSW, Australia
| | - Joanne Lewis
- Faculty of Health, The University of Technology Sydney, Ultimo, NSW, Australia
| | - Joanne Travaglia
- Faculty of Health, The University of Technology Sydney, Ultimo, NSW, Australia
| | - Michelle DiGiacomo
- Faculty of Health, The University of Technology Sydney, Ultimo, NSW, Australia
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López-Martínez C, Orgeta V, Frías-Osuna A, Del-Pino-Casado R. The mediating role of sense of coherence on mental health outcomes in carers of older dependent relatives: A longitudinal study. Int J Geriatr Psychiatry 2021; 36:722-730. [PMID: 33184903 DOI: 10.1002/gps.5472] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2020] [Accepted: 11/01/2020] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Sense of coherence (SOC) is an important protective factor for carer well-being but research to date remains cross-sectional, focusing primarily on the direct effects of SOC on carers' mental health. The study's aim was to investigate the mediating role of SOC in the longitudinal relationship between caregiver strain and carers' psychological health, and its stability over time. METHODS Prospective longitudinal study conducted in Jaén (Spain) with a probabilistic sample of 132 carers of older people, with data collected at baseline and at 1-year follow-up. We measured SOC, caregiver strain, anxiety and depressive symptoms, and several care-recipient characteristics and intensity of care provided. We used multiple linear regression modelling and the Sobel test to analyse mediation effects. RESULTS SOC was significantly negatively longitudinally associated with both anxiety (β = -0.38, p = 0.001) and depressive symptoms (β = -0.28, p = 0.023), after controlling for several confounders. SOC mediated both the relationship between caregiver strain and anxiety, and caregiver strain and depressive symptoms (Sobel test: p < 0.001 for anxiety and p < 0.001 for depressive symptoms). Differences between baseline and 1-year follow-up SOC scores were not statistically significant (p = 0.617). CONCLUSIONS SOC appears to buffer the impact of caregiver strain on symptoms of depression and anxiety in informal carers of older people. Our data showed that SOC is an important psychological resource for carers that remained relatively stable under non-experimental conditions over a period of 1 year in this sample. The findings suggest that interventions aimed at strengthening SOC may protect carer psychological well-being.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Vasiliki Orgeta
- Division of Psychiatry, University College London, London, UK
| | - Antonio Frías-Osuna
- Department of Nursing, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Jaén, Jaén, Spain
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Basnyat I, Chang L. Tensions in support for family caregivers of people with dementia in Singapore: A qualitative study. Dementia (London) 2021; 20:2278-2293. [PMID: 33913355 DOI: 10.1177/1471301221990567] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Family members as informal caregivers are considered the first line of support for people with dementia across the world. In Singapore, caregiving expectations revolve around the cultural expectations of providing care in the home environment. However, studies in Singapore have identified a lack of family support for primary caregivers. Family support has been discussed in the literature as the provision of care for people with dementia, and rarely as a resource for family caregivers. METHOD To understand family support among primary caregivers in Singapore, 24 semi-structured interviews were conducted. Thematic analysis found four themes: excuses for lack of physical support for the caregiver, tensions between cultural expectations of caregiving and the provision of support, unmet emotional support, and lack of awareness of dementia and caregiving needs. FINDINGS Caregivers rationalized and forgave the absence of physical support but were frustrated when the lack of support impacted people with dementia. This was seen as a lack of fulfilling cultural obligations of caring for elderly parents. The caregivers also felt frustrated with the lack of emotional support provided to them, but these were unspoken between the caregiver and the family members. Insufficient and unhelpful support giving was exacerbated with the perception of family members' limited understanding of the demands of caregiving. CONCLUSION The findings offer four practical suggestions to address unmet support needs. First, public education is needed to enhance general knowledge about the symptoms and progression of dementia. Second, help is needed to address miscommunication about support within the family. Third, the development of guidebooks is needed to help family caregivers communicate with family members about their various support needs. Fourth, the relationship between cultural expectation and caregiving must be understood within the context of modernity and urbanism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iccha Basnyat
- School of Communication Studies, 3745James Madison University, VA, USA
| | - Leanne Chang
- Department of Communication Studies, 26679Hong Kong Baptist University, Kowloon, Hong Kong
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Fry M, Elliott R, Curtis K, Mei J, Fitzpatrick L, Groth R, Murphy S, Jones K, Hofman C. Family members' perceptions of older person discharge from emergency departments. Int J Older People Nurs 2021; 16:e12365. [PMID: 33543594 DOI: 10.1111/opn.12365] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2020] [Revised: 12/10/2020] [Accepted: 12/22/2020] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND People aged over 64 years account for approximately 20% of adult emergency presentations, with up to 60% of people discharged home from emergency departments (EDs). Many older people discharged home are supported by family. OBJECTIVES The objective of this study was to explore the family members' perspectives of older people's discharge from ED to inform new alternative or innovative models of care. METHODS The design was a descriptive exploratory study. A convenience sample of family members was recruited from three EDs across Sydney, New South Wales. Telephone interviews were conducted over a six-month period and data were analysed using statistics or thematic analysis. RESULTS Interviews were conducted with 133 family members of whom the majority were female (n = 80, 60%) with a median age of 70 years (IQR 91-35). Over 87% of family members were satisfied with ED care and discharge processes that were provided to the older person. The majority (n = 129, 97%) of family members reported that they understood the treatment and perceived that the older person's condition was well managed (n = 119, 86%). The majority (n = 114, 86%) of family members reported being informed of the medical diagnosis and were confident (87%, n = 115) to continue care of the older person at home. Three themes emerged from qualitative data: (a) a sense of time-moving through ED; (b) giving voice to the impact of clinician communication; and (c) the delivery of comfort and basic care. DISCUSSION Family members reported that they were engaged in and satisfied with the older person's ED treatment and discharge. However, family members suggested that there was opportunity to improve communication consistency for ED discharge and managing the wait. CONCLUSION Clinicians need to engage with family members to optimise quality and safety. Clinicians need to understand that family members considered comfort and fundamentals of care to be an important dimension of the older person's ED management plan.
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Affiliation(s)
- Margaret Fry
- Northern Sydney Local Health District, Faculty of Health, Royal North Shore Hospital, University of Technology Sydney, St Leonards, NSW, Australia.,Sydney Nursing School, University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW, Australia.,Faculty of Health, University of Technology Sydney, St Leonards, NSW, Australia
| | - Rosalind Elliott
- Research & Practice Development Unit, Royal North Shore Hospital, Nursing and Midwifery Directorate, St Leonards, NSW, Australia
| | - Kate Curtis
- Sydney Nursing School, University of Sydney, Camperdown, NSW, Australia.,Emergency Services, ISLHD, Woollongong, NSW, Australia
| | - Joy Mei
- Aged Service in Emergency Team (ASET), Northern Sydney Local Health District, Hornsby Hospital, Hornsby, NSW, Australia
| | - Lesley Fitzpatrick
- Faculty of Health, University of Technology Sydney, St Leonards, NSW, Australia.,Emergency Department, Northern Sydney Local Health District, Royal North Shore Hospital, St Leonards, NSW, Australia
| | - Rachel Groth
- Aged Service in Emergency Team (ASET), Royal North Shore Hospital, St Leonards, NSW, Australia
| | - Sandra Murphy
- Research & Practice Development Unit, Royal North Shore Hospital, St Leonards, NSW, Australia
| | - Keryn Jones
- Emergency Department, South East Local Health District, St George Hospital, Kogarah, NSW, Australia
| | - Catherine Hofman
- Aged Service in Emergency Team (ASET), Emergency Department, South East Sydney Local Health District, St George Hospital, Kogarah, NSW, Australia
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