Abstract
As the number of persons living with dementia (PLWD) enrolling in hospice care rises, caregiver support becomes increasingly crucial. While social support can help buffer caregiver stress, many caregivers report feeling isolated and having unmet needs, highlighting the limited research on this population. This qualitative descriptive study aimed to better understand caregivers' social support during the period when the PLWD is enrolled in hospice care. Analyzing qualitative data from 22 caregivers of PLWD using conventional content analysis, we identified the theme "Variations in Social Connections." This theme encompasses two subthemes: "never completely alone," indicating social support from family, friends, and neighbors, and "disappointed sometimes," reflecting instances when some individuals in the caregivers' lives couldn't provide regular support. These findings underscore the need for individualized interventions, as each caregiver experiences social support uniquely. Future research should consider the variations in social support among caregivers of PLWD to inform caregiving practices effectively.
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
More From: Journal of applied gerontology : the official journal of the Southern Gerontological Society
Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.