Contextual Exploration of a New Family Caregiver Support Concept for Geriatric Settings Using a Participatory Health Research Strategy.

Elisabeth Dorant,Theresia Krieger

doi:10.3390/ijerph14121467

Elisabeth Dorant, Theresia Krieger

Open Access

https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph14121467

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Abstract

Family caregivers are the backbone of the long-term care support system within the home environment. Comprehensive caregiver support programs require collaboration and coordination within the system. A new public health concept, Vade Mecum, aims to harmonize and professionalize family caregiver support initiatives in geriatric care settings in the Euregion Maas-Rhine. Exploration of the new concept recently started in Germany to gain in-depth insight into current support and the needs of the geriatric care team and family caregivers. Within the context of an exploratory qualitative study, a participatory health research (PHR) strategy was applied to make optimal use of experience and knowledge from the system. Care professionals, engaged as co-researchers, were responsible for decisions about the research question, data collection methods and procedures of engaging family caregivers. A research team representing all professions within the geriatric department was formed. Research objectives were formulated and an appropriate mix of qualitative data collection methods consisting of interviews, focus groups and story-telling was chosen. Needs and expectations of the new concept, and practical solutions for involving family caregivers were discussed. A PHR strategy resulted in initiating a qualitative study in a geriatric care setting carried out by care professionals from the department. Knowledge was generated in a co-creative manner, and co-researchers were empowered. A comprehensive understanding of the system serves as a starting point for advancement of the new family caregiver concept.

Highlights

A vast majority of Europeans prefer to be cared for in their own home or the home of their family when in need of long-term care [1]
Initial personal impressions were that care professionals perceive family caregivers as important for the rehabilitation process, but that their role was not specified within the current rehabilitation process
Two important goals were reached in this first exploration of the current family caregiver support system in the German geriatric setting applying a participatory health research (PHR) strategy: knowledge was generated in a co-creative manner, and co-researchers were empowered within their setting

Summary

Introduction

A vast majority of Europeans prefer to be cared for in their own home or the home of their family when in need of long-term care [1]. Caregivers are the backbone of the long-term care support system. Recent figures show that in Germany, 69% of all people requiring long-term care are cared for at home, with over 90% receiving care from family members. More than 70% of home care is provided by family members alone, without the assistance of care professionals [3]. Especially rely on their family for day-to-day care or support. In The Netherlands, more than 50% of all adults over 75 years of age living in the community receive care and support; 22% receive care only from a family caregiver [5]

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Discussion

Conclusion