Positive Aspects of Dementia Caregiving During the COVID-19 Pandemic.
Clin Gerontol
; 45(1): 86-96, 2022.
Article
in English
| MEDLINE | ID: covidwho-1254193
ABSTRACT
OBJECTIVES:
This project investigated experiences of caregivers of people living with dementia during COVID-19. We recorded caregivers' perceptions of care before, during, and moving forward from COVID-19, emphasizing positive experiences, coping strategies, creative care adaptation, strengths demonstrated, and benefits of providing care.METHODS:
Allied health professionals conducted semi-structured interviews with 26 informal caregivers of people living with dementia. We categorized and thematically analyzed responses as before, during or moving forward from COVID-19.RESULTS:
A range of themes were derived from the data. Pre-pandemic care (1) focusing on the person living with dementia and (2) working together. During-pandemic care (1) respecting personhood; (2) connecting with virtues and values; (3) improving relationships; (4) seeking and receiving support; (5) prioritizing self-care; (6) being protective and proactive; (7) making practical changes. Moving forward from COVID-19 (1) strengthening commitment to the person living with dementia, (2) looking after my own needs, and (3) considering practical requirements.CONCLUSIONS:
Participants reported positive caregiving experiences in all timeframes, focusing more on their own needs and experiences during and moving forward from COVID-19. This research may highlight informal caregivers' challenges and needs. CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS Enforced isolation produced deeper connections for some caregivers. Caregivers benefit from resources facilitating adaptive care.Keywords
Full text:
Available
Collection:
International databases
Database:
MEDLINE
Main subject:
Dementia
/
COVID-19
Type of study:
Prognostic study
/
Qualitative research
Limits:
Humans
Language:
English
Journal:
Clin Gerontol
Year:
2022
Document Type:
Article
Affiliation country:
07317115.2021.1929630
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