The Impact of Caregiving on Caregiver's Identity in Dementia
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Date
2024-01-09
Authors
Campbell, Savanah
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
University of Oregon
Abstract
The purpose of this research was to explore how caring responsibilities impact caregivers’ identity over time in first-time caregivers of parents with dementia. Further aims were to gain a deeper understanding of the “invisible second patient” perspective. This was a phenomenological study utilizing semi-structured interviews to capture longitudinal change in caregiver identity over a five-month interview period. Questions arose regarding caregiver identity such as how familial care relationships shape one’s caregiver identity. Participation in this study appears to be therapeutic to participants and appeared to engender greater reflection of self overall. This study promotes further research into the impact of caregiving on caregivers’ identity as well as the continued need for support services that are culturally responsive to improve the health and well-being of the caregiver and their recipients.