2018 Volume 21 Issue 1 Pages 32-39
Aim: This study aimed to clarify the experiences of spousal caregivers of persons with dementia among elderly couples, and to obtain suggestions for the ideal way to support spousal caregivers.
Method: A qualitative strategy was adopted for studying five spousal caregivers who were caring for their partner with dementia at home in a metropolitan area, Japan. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews as well as participant observations at “Dementia Café（Ninchi-shou Café）.” Interviews were audio-taped, and their contents were transcribed verbatim after which they were analyzed qualitatively. The study was conducted after receiving ethics committee approval from an affiliated research institution and informed consent from participants.
Results: Seven categories were identified that described the experiences of spousal caregivers of persons with dementia: “duty and gratitude,” “powerlessness and bewilderment,” “rebuilding the relationship,” “searching and acquisition,” “grief and adaptation,” “loneliness and support,” and “expanded worldview.” The experiences of spousal caregivers of persons with dementia among elderly couples included living as a care provider even as they felt their own advanced age keenly, performing care activities while taking interest in social problems surrounding dementia care and gaining expanded worldviews through their care roles.
Discussion: Findings suggested the importance of caregivers’ care closely aligned with their feelings based on their personal caregiving experiences, also creating a caregiver support system that can assist spousal caregivers of persons with dementia in elderly households.
