Four of a kind: Salient caregiver archetypes to better understand the psychosocial needs and behavioral patterns of dementia caregivers in Singapore

Abstract

BackgroundFamily caregivers’ lived experiences are often perceived as a homogenous entity, preventing effective identification of unique caregiving needs and appropriate support. Our study examined and classified the varying dementia caregiving experiences in an Asian setting, through establishing caregiver archetypes. MethodsSecondary analysis of semi-structured interviews conducted with 16 dementia family caregivers in a Singapore hospital was performed. Thematic analysis and typological analysis were utilized. ResultsFour caregiver archetypes (Reluctant, Ambivalent, Enlightened, and Selfless) were identified: Reluctant caregivers possessed poor understanding of dementia and experienced immeasurable distress; Ambivalent caregivers carried mixed feelings towards caregiving and felt unsupported; Enlightened caregivers preserved care-recipients’ dignity and accepted challenges with priority on sustainable care; Selfless caregivers were overly-devoted and enmeshed in the caregiver identity. ConclusionOur findings are useful in providing a framework for: (1) rapid understanding of informal caregivers’ varying needs, (2) targeted support in a holistic caregiver-centered manner.