Experience of a Special Rating Dementia Service for Family Caregivers of Elderly People with Dementia

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: This study tries to explore experiences with a special rating dementia service among family caregivers of elderly people with dementia. METHODS: The participants were 11 family caregivers of elderly people with dementia and had used a day-care service from the special rating dementia service for more than 3 months. Data were collected through individual in-depth interviews and analyzed using content analysis. RESULTS: Three categories emerged: “reminiscence of an entangled life”, “feeling relieved from a stifled life”, and “hope for a better life through help and support” with 8 sub-categories and 23 codes. By using the special rating dementia service, the participants experienced relief from the burden of caring for their elderly family member with dementia and restored their social relations or family relationships. They experienced a positive transition in which their caring for elderly family members with dementia was integrated into their daily lives, and they expressed their desires for better policies. CONCLUSION: These findings imply the importance and necessity of the special rating dementia service. Practical and systematic family support programs are necessary and proactive publicity activities by the government and public agencies are suggested to ensure that family caregivers can easily use the special rating dementia system.