ABSTRACT
The life situation of people with dementia and family carers during the coronavirus pandemic - A qualitative study Abstract. Background: The measures initiated as a result of the coronavirus pandemic have far-reaching consequences for the everyday life of people with dementia and their family carers. Both are usually among those who are the most vulnerable and thus are subject to rigorous restrictions. Their everyday life is made more difficult because care and respite services are currently suspended. In addition, people with dementia have difficulty understanding and implementing the restrictions and hygiene rules. AIMS: This study aims to describe the current life situation of family carers and people with dementia. METHODS: For this purpose, 21 telephone interviews with both family carers and people with dementia have been conducted twice during the spring of 2020 and were subsequently evaluated by a content analysis. RESULTS: The interviewees experienced the situation differently. Especially the social isolation, the higher amount of care, the uncertainty of the situation and the increase in psychological symptoms are described as being stressful. With regard to coping with the situation, discussions are taking place about the support from the social environment, alternative ways of communication, experiences with comparable crises, the stability of formal care and the handling of information. CONCLUSIONS: Family carers and people with dementia feel stressed due to the coronavirus pandemic, but many of them have coping strategies for this special situation. Informal support is a particularly important support mechanism.