Caregivers' experiences of patients with moderate-stage Alzheimer's disease: a qualitative study.

Abstract

Caregivers experience challenges in the longest stage of Alzheimer disease, the moderate stage, due to all day demanded caregiving, added with neuropsychiatric symptoms, and communication difficulties. Supporting challenges of caregiving is more effective when specific needs are assessed and real-life experiences are appreciated. This study sought to explore caregivers' experiences and support needs for moderate-stage Alzheimer's disease patients. This study had a qualitative phenomenological design. In-depth, semi-structured interviews were conducted with 46 caregivers via face-to-face interviews. Following transcription, an analysis was done with Colaizzi's steps by coding and defining the main themes and subthemes. Caregivers stated they faced difficulties in the care activities of patients and needed support. Three themes were identified: (i) changes related to Alzheimer's disease; (ii) change in caregivers' life; and (iii) support needs and coping strategies about the care process. Current study confirmed that caregivers of moderate-stage Alzheimer's disease patients need proper support to cope with daily care activities and systems that help them overcome life challenges. The development of a system based on the stage-specific caregivers' need to decrease daily care challenges and overwhelming economic and emotional stress can be recommended.