Examining the Social Networks Types and Their Effects on Caregiving Experience of Family Caregivers for Individuals with Dementia: A Mixed-methods Study

Abstract

Abstract Background and Objectives Social networks are crucial to personal health, particularly among caregivers of individuals with dementia; however, different types of social networks among caregivers of those with dementia and how these differences are associated with caregiver burden and positive appraisal, remain underexamined. This study aims to depict dementia caregivers’ social network types, related factors, and impact on caregiving experiences. Research Design and Methods A questionnaire-based survey was conducted with a total of 237 family caregivers of individuals with dementia nested additional semi-structured interviews conducted with 14 caregivers in Chongqing, China. A quantitative study was designed to collect data on personal and situational information, social networks, caregiver burden, and positive aspects of caregiving. Qualitative data were collected via semi-structured interviews. Latent class analysis and multivariate regression analyses were applied to quantitative data, and inductive content analysis to qualitative data. Results The three social network types—family-limited (n=39, 16.46%), family-dominant (n=99, 41.77%), and diverse network (n=99, 41.77%)—differed in age and sex of caregivers and individuals with dementia, stage of dementia, and caregiving intensity. Caregivers in family-dominant networks had a lower caregiver burden (β= -0.299, P= 0.003) and greater positive aspects of caregiving (β= 0.228, P= 0.021) than those in family-limited networks. Three themes--accessibility, reciprocity, and reliance--emerged as facilitators and barriers when asking for support. Caregivers frequently cited the perception of economic, practical, and emotional support, yet reported a lack of adequate formal support from healthcare providers. Discussion and Implication Family caregivers of individuals with dementia have different social network types that vary considerably among socio-cultural contexts and perceive various types of support from social networks. Solid family networks and diverse social networks are contributors to long-term dementia care.