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Mitterer S, Zimmermann K, Fink G, Simon M, Gerber AK, Bergsträsser E. Hospitalization- and death-related financial and employment effects in parents of children with life-limiting conditions: a fixed-effects analysis. Eur J Pediatr 2024; 183:4215-4227. [PMID: 38985175 DOI: 10.1007/s00431-024-05680-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2024] [Revised: 05/24/2024] [Accepted: 06/30/2024] [Indexed: 07/11/2024]
Abstract
The purpose of this study is to investigate out-of-pocket non-medical expenses and employment-related outcomes in families of children with life-limiting conditions, specifically, to quantify the financial and employment implications of two events: a child's hospitalization and death. This cohort study used panel data collected prospectively for a larger study investigating the effectiveness of specialized pediatric palliative care. Participants were recruited by medical professionals between November 2019 and May 2022 at four Swiss children's hospitals. The care follow-up and bereavement follow-up assessments were 330 and 300 days, respectively. We measured out-of-pocket non-medical expenses, individual full-time equivalent units, and personal income, as well as sick leave and vacation days taken. Analyses included descriptive statistics and two-way linear fixed-effects regressions. The analysis included 110 parents (mothers n = 59, fathers n = 51) of 61 children. Children were hospitalized for a median of 7 days (interquartile range 0-21, range 0-227). The fixed-effects models found a positive association between hospitalization, i.e., length of stay, and travel and accommodation expenses (coefficient 4.18, 95% confidence interval 2.20-6.16). On average, for each week of hospitalization, parents spent an additional 29 Swiss francs on travel and accommodation. During the 300-day bereavement follow-up, six (26%) of 23 parents increased their work commitments, while one reported a decrease. CONCLUSIONS Families incur higher travel and accommodation expenses during hospitalization than during non-hospitalized periods. Instrumental support, e.g., parking vouchers, can help families minimize these costs. Future studies should investigate whether early return to work during bereavement is driven by economic considerations or a desire for distraction. CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION Data analyzed in this study were collected as part of a clinical trial, registered on ClinicalTrials.gov, No. NCT04236180, 15 March 2019 What Is Known: • Families of children with life-limiting conditions are at risk of substantial financial burden from high out-of-pocket medical expenses. • It is also known that parents often have to incur out-of-pocket non-medical expenses and reduce their work commitments. Little is known about the economic consequences of losing a child to a life-limiting condition. WHAT IS NEW • We provide new longitudinal evidence on the hospitalization- and death-related financial and employment implications for families of children with life-limiting conditions. • Child hospitalizations add to families' financial burden through increased travel and accommodation expenses. Work commitments rose during early bereavement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefan Mitterer
- Institute of Nursing Science, Department of Public Health, University of Basel, Bernoullistrasse 28, CH-4065, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Karin Zimmermann
- Institute of Nursing Science, Department of Public Health, University of Basel, Bernoullistrasse 28, CH-4065, Basel, Switzerland.
- Paediatric Palliative Care and Children's Research Center, University Children's Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland.
| | - Günther Fink
- Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Michael Simon
- Institute of Nursing Science, Department of Public Health, University of Basel, Bernoullistrasse 28, CH-4065, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Anne-Kathrin Gerber
- Institute of Nursing Science, Department of Public Health, University of Basel, Bernoullistrasse 28, CH-4065, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Eva Bergsträsser
- Paediatric Palliative Care and Children's Research Center, University Children's Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
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Oliver TL, Hetland B, Schmaderer M, Zolty R, Pozehl B. A Feasibility Study of Qualitative Methods Using the Zarit Burden Interview in Heart Failure Caregivers. Appl Nurs Res 2024; 79:151826. [PMID: 39256009 DOI: 10.1016/j.apnr.2024.151826] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2023] [Revised: 06/28/2024] [Accepted: 07/09/2024] [Indexed: 09/12/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The primary goal of this study was to identify and understand the burden experienced by informal caregivers of patients with HF at the time of hospital discharge. The researchers aimed to guide future education interventions and promote informal caregiver burden screening. DESIGN The researchers administered the Zarit Burden Interview (ZBI) as a quantitative tool to assess informal caregiver burden. The ZBI is a standardized questionnaire used to measure the extent of burden experienced by informal caregivers. After administering the ZBI, the researchers conducted semi-structured interviews with five informal caregivers of patients with HF. These interviews were guided by probing questions related to ZBI items that were rated with high levels of burden (3 "quite frequently" or 4 "nearly always"). RESULTS The quantitative data showed that the informal caregivers' burden scores on the ZBI ranged from 4 to 41. Male informal caregivers tended to report lower burden scores. The non-spouse informal caregiver had the highest burden score at 41. The qualitative analysis of the interviews revealed several themes related to informal caregiver burden, including fear, patient expectations, patient dependence on caregivers, social isolation, and stressors associated with medication changes after discharge. Despite the qualitative insights into specific burden-related issues, the quantitative analysis of the ZBI scores showed that, on average, informal caregivers reported little to no burden at the time of acute exacerbation of HF in the patient. CONCLUSION The study's findings suggest that while informal caregivers may not report prominent levels of overall burden, they do face specific challenges and stressors, such as social isolation and managing medication changes post-discharge. These findings can inform the development of targeted support and interventions for informal caregivers of patients with HF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tamara L Oliver
- University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, United States of America; Creighton University, Omaha, NE, United States of America.
| | - Breanna Hetland
- University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, United States of America
| | - Myra Schmaderer
- University of Nebraska Medical Center, Lincoln, NE, United States of America
| | - Ronald Zolty
- Univeristy of Nebraska Medical Center, Department of Cardiovascular, Omaha, NE, United States of America
| | - Bunny Pozehl
- University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, NE, United States of America
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Marsack-Topolewski CN, Wright K, DiZazzo-Miller R, Samuel PS. Careers and Quality of Life: Comparing Perceptions of Compound and Noncompound Caregivers. Occup Ther Health Care 2024:1-23. [PMID: 39302769 DOI: 10.1080/07380577.2024.2400526] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2023] [Accepted: 08/30/2024] [Indexed: 09/22/2024]
Abstract
Study objectives were to compare differences in quality of life (QOL) and family quality of life (FQOL) between compound and noncompound caregivers and describe how career-related dimensions influence the global FQOL. Examination of survey data from 77 compound and 113 noncompound caregivers indicated that compound caregivers had lower QOL, global FQOL, and worse career outcomes than noncompound caregivers. Global FQOL was associated with greater career satisfaction, higher income, and noncompound caregiver type. For compound caregivers, global FQOL was associated with more career opportunities and positive perceptions of career stability. These findings have implications for supporting career pursuits of family caregivers.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Kathryn Wright
- School of Social Work & Department of Anthropology, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Rosanne DiZazzo-Miller
- Department of Health Care Sciences - Occupational Therapy Program, Eugene Applebaum College of Pharmacy and Health Care Sciences, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Preethy S Samuel
- Department of Health Care Sciences - Occupational Therapy Program, Eugene Applebaum College of Pharmacy and Health Care Sciences, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI, USA
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Pereira TLB, Wichaikhum OA, Nantsupawat A, Rajendrana P, Baladram S, Shorey S. Recognising the Parental Caregiver Burden of Children With Mental Disorders: A Systematic Mixed-Studies Review. Int J Ment Health Nurs 2024. [PMID: 39238105 DOI: 10.1111/inm.13417] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2024] [Revised: 07/22/2024] [Accepted: 08/18/2024] [Indexed: 09/07/2024]
Abstract
This review aims to consolidate and appraise evidence exploring the caregiver burden of parents of children with mental disorders. A mixed-studies review structure was adopted and six electronic databases (PubMed, CINAHL, PsycINFO, Embase, Scopus and ProQuest Dissertations and Theses Global) were searched from each database's inception date until September 2023. Thomas & Harden's thematic analysis framework was utilised for data analysis. Twenty-three studies were included in this review. The results-based convergent integration method identified an overarching theme titled 'hiding behind the walls on fire, engulfed in chaos: dark and alone', three main themes named 'Invisible scars': role of psychological factors on caregiver burden, navigating through social and economic influences on caregiving burden, and influence of illness-related variables and nine subthemes. This review highlighted that the parents perceived insufficient support from healthcare providers and a lack of insight regarding their children's medical condition as the primary contributors to the burden experienced. It is imperative for healthcare professionals to collaboratively engage with parental caregivers, offering accessible treatment options for their children with mental disorders and providing comprehensive educational resources to facilitate a profound understanding of their children's mental health conditions. In addition to addressing caregivers' informational needs, the establishment of an integrated support system is advocated, one involving active participation from healthcare professionals, healthcare institutions, community resources, social services and policymakers. This holistic approach could better meet the multifaceted needs of caregivers, encompassing psychosocial, emotional and financial aspects. Trial Registration: International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews: PROSPERO ID: CRD42022363420.
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Affiliation(s)
- Travis Lanz-Brian Pereira
- Alice Lee Centre for Nursing Studies, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | | | | | - Priyadharshni Rajendrana
- Alice Lee Centre for Nursing Studies, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Sara Baladram
- Alice Lee Centre for Nursing Studies, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Shefaly Shorey
- Alice Lee Centre for Nursing Studies, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
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Andersen LH, Løfgren B, Skipper M, Krogh K, Jensen RD. "They forget that I'm a human being"-ward round communication with older patients living with frailty and informal caregivers: a qualitative study. Eur Geriatr Med 2024:10.1007/s41999-024-01043-5. [PMID: 39227557 DOI: 10.1007/s41999-024-01043-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2024] [Accepted: 08/19/2024] [Indexed: 09/05/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE Skilful communication prompts quality patient care. Informal caregivers occupy a crucial role when caring for hospitalised older patients living with frailty. However, skilful communication with both patients and informal caregivers during ward rounds has not been studied. Thus, we aimed to explore communication preferences of patients and informal caregivers during ward rounds. METHODS We conducted semi-structured interviews with hospitalized patients and informal caregivers until information redundancy occurred. We used inductive coding of the transcribed interviews followed by a reflexive thematic analysis. RESULTS The study included 15 patients and 15 informal caregivers. Patients had a median age of 85 years (range 75-100 years) and seven patients were females. Informal caregivers' median age were 45 years (range 38-80 years) and 13 were females. Three themes were generated: (1) building relationships and conveying information, (2) alleviating informal caregiver strain and (3) sharing the decision-making process. Themes highlighted the importance of collaborative and empathetic approaches in healthcare interactions, emphasizing interpersonal communication skills, such as fostering professional relationships. The interviews unveiled informal caregiver burden stemming from disempowerment during hospital discharge process and managing mistrust within the healthcare system. The shared decision-making process should address patients' and informal caregivers' needs and circumstances. CONCLUSIONS Communication preferences of a population of older patients living with frailty and informal caregivers during ward rounds encompass interpersonal communication, demonstrating ample time, and being seen as a human being. Informal caregivers value being included in the decision-making process. Skilful communication includes for doctors to recognize informal caregivers' narratives and burdens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lene Holst Andersen
- Department of Internal Medicine, Randers Regional Hospital, Skovlyvej 15, 8930, Randers, NE, Denmark.
- Department of Geriatric Medicine, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark.
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark.
| | - Bo Løfgren
- Department of Internal Medicine, Randers Regional Hospital, Skovlyvej 15, 8930, Randers, NE, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Mads Skipper
- Postgraduate Medical Education, Region North, Viborg, Denmark
| | - Kristian Krogh
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
- Department of Anesthesiology and Intensive Care, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Rune Dall Jensen
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
- MidtSIM, Corporate HR, Central Denmark Region, Aarhus, Denmark
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Mendoza-Jiménez MJ, van Exel J, Brouwer W. On spillovers in economic evaluations: definition, mapping review and research agenda. THE EUROPEAN JOURNAL OF HEALTH ECONOMICS : HEPAC : HEALTH ECONOMICS IN PREVENTION AND CARE 2024; 25:1239-1260. [PMID: 38261132 PMCID: PMC11377364 DOI: 10.1007/s10198-023-01658-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2023] [Accepted: 12/05/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2024]
Abstract
An important issue in economic evaluations is determining whether all relevant impacts are considered, given the perspective chosen for the analysis. Acknowledging that patients are not isolated individuals has important implications in this context. Increasingly, the term "spillovers" is used to label consequences of health interventions on others. However, a clear definition of spillovers is lacking, and as a result, the scope of the concept remains unclear. In this study, we aim to clarify the concept of spillovers by proposing a definition applicable in health economic evaluations. To illustrate the implications of this definition, we highlight the diversity of potential spillovers through an expanded impact inventory and conduct a mapping review that outlines the evidence base for the different types of spillovers. In the context of economic evaluations of health interventions, we define spillovers as all impacts from an intervention on all parties or entities other than the users of the intervention under evaluation. This definition encompasses a broader range of potential costs and effects, beyond informal caregivers and family members. The expanded impact inventory enables a systematic approach to identifying broader impacts of health interventions. The mapping review shows that the relevance of different types of spillovers is context-specific. Some spillovers are regularly included in economic evaluations, although not always recognised as such, while others are not. A consistent use of the term "spillovers", improved measurement of these costs and effects, and increased transparency in reporting them are still necessary. To that end, we propose a research agenda.
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Affiliation(s)
- María J Mendoza-Jiménez
- Erasmus School of Health Policy & Management (ESHPM), Erasmus University Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands.
- Erasmus Centre for Health Economics Rotterdam (EsCHER), Erasmus University Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands.
- Facultad de Ciencias Sociales y Humanísticas, Escuela Superior Politécnica del Litoral (ESPOL), Guayaquil, Ecuador.
| | - Job van Exel
- Erasmus School of Health Policy & Management (ESHPM), Erasmus University Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
- Erasmus Centre for Health Economics Rotterdam (EsCHER), Erasmus University Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Werner Brouwer
- Erasmus School of Health Policy & Management (ESHPM), Erasmus University Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
- Erasmus Centre for Health Economics Rotterdam (EsCHER), Erasmus University Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
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Di Gessa G, Deindl C. Determinants of trajectories of informal caregiving in later life: evidence from England. Eur J Ageing 2024; 21:24. [PMID: 39215804 PMCID: PMC11365911 DOI: 10.1007/s10433-024-00818-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/05/2024] [Indexed: 09/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Although the long-term consequences of informal care provision have been well investigated, few studies have examined the trajectories of informal care provision among older people and the socioeconomic, demographic, health, and family characteristics associated with them. We use data from four waves of the English Longitudinal Study of Ageing, with 6561 respondents followed for 6 years (2012/3-2018/9). We used group-based trajectory modelling to group people's provision of care over time into a finite number of distinct trajectories of caregiving. Using multinomial logistic regressions, we then investigated the characteristics associated with these trajectories. Four distinct trajectories of caregiving were identified: "stable intensive", "increasing intensive", "decreasing", and "stable no care". Results suggest that although there are socioeconomic, demographic, and health differences across the trajectories of caregiving (with younger women in good health and poorer socioeconomic status more likely to care intensively throughout), family characteristics are their main drivers. Respondents who live alone, with no children, and no parents alive are more likely to never provide care, whereas those with older parents and who live with adults in poor health are more likely to provide stable intensive care. Also, changes in family characteristics (e.g. death of parents, widowhood, or deterioration of the partner's health) are associated with trajectories representing increases or decreases in caregiving over time. Overall, trajectories of informal caregiving undertaken by older people are varied and these patterns are mostly associated with both the availability and health of family members, suggesting that need factors represent the most immediate reason for caregiving commitments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giorgio Di Gessa
- Department of Epidemiology and Public Health, University College London, 1-19 Torrington Place, London, WC1E 7HB, UK.
| | - Christian Deindl
- Department of Social Sciences, TU Dortmund University, Dortmund, Germany
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8
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Cohen SA, Nash CC, Greaney ML. Place-based, intersectional variation in caregiving patterns and health outcomes among informal caregivers in the United States. Front Public Health 2024; 12:1423457. [PMID: 39224561 PMCID: PMC11366647 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2024.1423457] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2024] [Accepted: 08/07/2024] [Indexed: 09/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Informal caregiving is a critical component of the healthcare system despite numerous impacts on informal caregivers' health and well-being. Racial and gender disparities in caregiving duties and health outcomes are well documented. Place-based factors, such as neighborhood conditions and rural-urban status, are increasingly being recognized as promoting and moderating health disparities. However, the potential for place-based factors to interact with racial and gender disparities as they relate to caregiving attributes jointly and differentially is not well established. Therefore, the primary objective of this study was to jointly assess the variability in caregiver health and aspects of the caregiving experience by race/ethnicity, sex, and rural-urban status. Methods The study is a secondary analysis of data from the 2021 and 2022 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS) from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Multivariable logistic regression or Poisson regression models assessed differences in caregiver attributes and health measures by demographic group categorized by race/ethnicity, sex, and rural-urban status. Results Respondents from rural counties were significantly more likely to report poor or fair health (23.2% vs. 18.5%), have obesity (41.5% vs. 37.1%), and have a higher average number of comorbidities than urban caregivers. Overall, rural Black male caregivers were 43% more likely to report poor or fair health than White male caregivers (OR 1.43, 95% CI 1.21, 1.69). Urban female caregivers across all racial groups had a significantly higher likelihood of providing care to someone with Alzheimer's disease than rural White males (p < 0.001). Additionally, there were nuanced patterns of caregiving attributes across race/ethnicity*sex*rural-urban status subgroups, particularly concerning caregiving intensity and length of caregiving. Discussion Study findings emphasize the need to develop and implement tailored approaches to mitigate caregiver burden and address the nuanced needs of a diverse population of caregivers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Steven A. Cohen
- Department of Public Health, University of Rhode Island, Kingston, RI, United States
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Boateng EA, Bisiw MB, Agyapomah R, Enyemadze I, Kyei-Dompim J, Kumi SP, Boakye DS. A qualitative study on the experiences of family caregivers of children with End Stage Kidney Disease (ESKD). Biopsychosoc Med 2024; 18:17. [PMID: 39152453 PMCID: PMC11328486 DOI: 10.1186/s13030-024-00314-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2024] [Accepted: 08/07/2024] [Indexed: 08/19/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Family caregivers, mostly parents, are greatly involved in the care of their children with end stage kidney disease (ESKD) globally. Yet, the experiences of these caregivers and the demands placed on them by the caregiving role have not been explored or documented in Ghana. This study explored how caregiving affects the psychological, physical, social, and spiritual well-being of family caregivers of children with end stage kidney disease (ESKD) in Ghana. METHODS A phenomenological approach with the purposive sampling technique was used to gather data from 12 family caregivers of children with ESKD at a pediatric renal unit in Ghana. A semi-structured interview guide was constructed based on the constructs of the City of Hope Quality of Life (QoL) Family Caregiver Model and the research objectives. Colaizzi's thematic analysis approach was utilized to analyze data for this study. Themes were organized under the domains of the chosen model, and a new theme outside these domains was also generated. RESULTS The majority of the family caregivers experienced anxiety, fear, uncertainty, and hopelessness in response to the children's diagnosis and care. The thought of the possibility of the children dying was deeply traumatizing for our participants. Most participants reported bodily pains and physical ailments because of lifting and caring for the children. Financial constraint was also a key issue for all the family caregivers. Most of them received diverse support from their families and loved ones. Due to the demanding nature of the care, most family caregivers had to change or quit their jobs. They coped with the challenges through prayers, participating in religious activities, and being hopeful in God for healing. CONCLUSION All the family caregivers had their psychological well-being compromised as a result of the challenges they encountered physically, socially, and spiritually. Continuous psychosocial support, funding support, and review of policies on leave for civil workers with children diagnosed with ESKD are urgently required.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Mabel Baaba Bisiw
- Department of Nursing, School of Nursing and Midwifery, KNUST, Kumasi, Ghana
| | | | | | - Joana Kyei-Dompim
- Department of Midwifery, School of Nursing and Midwifery, KNUST, Kumasi, Ghana
| | - Samuel Peprah Kumi
- Department of Nursing, School of Nursing and Midwifery, KNUST, Kumasi, Ghana
- Nurses' Training College, Sampa, Ghana
| | - Dorothy Serwaa Boakye
- Department of Health Administration and Education, University of Education, Winneba, Ghana
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Befecadu FBP, Gonçalves M, Fernandes C, Laranjeira C, Dos Anjos Dixe M, Querido A, Pautex S, Larkin PJ, Da Rocha Rodrigues G. The experience of hope in dyads living with advanced chronic illness in Portugal: a longitudinal mixed-methods study. BMC Palliat Care 2024; 23:207. [PMID: 39143564 PMCID: PMC11325565 DOI: 10.1186/s12904-024-01528-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2024] [Accepted: 07/23/2024] [Indexed: 08/16/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hope is an important resource that helps patients and families thrive during difficult times. Although several studies have highlighted the importance of hope in different contexts, its specific manifestations in the realm of advanced chronic illness need further exploration. In this study, we sought to elucidate the intricate interplay between the construct of hope and the lived experience of advanced chronic illness within patient-caregiver dyads. Our objectives were (a) to explore the dyadic experience of hope as a changing dynamic over time for patients living with advanced chronic illness and their informal caregivers and (b) to evaluate variations of hope and symptom burden across time. METHODS We conducted a longitudinal mixed-methods study with a convergent design between December 2020 and April 2021. Patients living with advanced chronic illness and informal caregivers participated as a dyad (n = 8). The Herth Hope Index scale was used to measure dyads' level of hope and the Edmonton Symptom Assessment System was used to measure patients' symptom burden. Descriptive statistics were undertaken. A thematic analysis as described by Braun and Clarke was conducted to analyze dyadic interview data. Dyads' experience of hope was described by using the six dimensions of hope in the Model of Hope of Dufault and Martocchio. RESULTS Dyadic scores of hope and patients' symptom burden were stable over time. The constructs of hope in dyads included "Living one day at the time," "Having inner force/strength," and "Maintaining good health." Changes in patterns of hope were captured for each dyad in their transition over time. Data converged for all dyads except one. CONCLUSIONS The findings of our study show a constant presence of hope even in the face of adversity. Healthcare professionals must find ways to promote hope in dyads of patients living with advanced chronic diseases. Nurses play a pivotal role; dyadic interviews should be promoted to create a safe space for both patients and informal caregivers in order to share experiences. More research is needed to address patients' and informal caregivers' hope in chronic illness because current hope-based interventions primarily target cancer diagnoses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Filipa Baptista Peixoto Befecadu
- Palliative and Supportive Care Service, Chaire Kristian Gerhard Jebsen of Palliative Care Nursing, Lausanne University Hospital and University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland.
- Lausanne University Hospital, Lausanne, CHUV, Switzerland.
- Institute of Higher Education and Research in Healthcare (IUFRS), University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland.
- Geneva University Hospitals (HUG), Geneva, Switzerland.
| | - Maria Gonçalves
- Palliative Care Department, Hospital da Senhora da Oliveira, Creixomil, Guimarães, Portugal
| | - Cláudia Fernandes
- Palliative Care Department, Hospital da Senhora da Oliveira, Creixomil, Guimarães, Portugal
| | - Carlos Laranjeira
- School of Health Sciences, Polytechnic University of Leiria, Leiria, Portugal
- Center for Innovative Care and Health Technology (ciTechCare), Polytechnic University of Leiria, Leiria, Portugal
- Comprehensive Health Research Centre (CHRC), University of Évora, Évora, Portugal
| | - Maria Dos Anjos Dixe
- School of Health Sciences, Polytechnic University of Leiria, Leiria, Portugal
- Center for Innovative Care and Health Technology (ciTechCare), Polytechnic University of Leiria, Leiria, Portugal
| | - Ana Querido
- School of Health Sciences, Polytechnic University of Leiria, Leiria, Portugal
- Center for Innovative Care and Health Technology (ciTechCare), Polytechnic University of Leiria, Leiria, Portugal
- Center for Health Technology and Services Research (CINTESIS), NursID, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Sophie Pautex
- Department of Readaptation and Geriatrics, Palliative Medicine Division, University Hospital Geneva and University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Philip J Larkin
- Palliative and Supportive Care Service, Chaire Kristian Gerhard Jebsen of Palliative Care Nursing, Lausanne University Hospital and University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
- Lausanne University Hospital, Lausanne, CHUV, Switzerland
- Institute of Higher Education and Research in Healthcare (IUFRS), University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Gora Da Rocha Rodrigues
- Geneva School of Health Sciences, HES-SO University of Applied Sciences and Arts Western Switzerland, Geneva, Switzerland
- HESAV School of Health Sciences, HES-SO University of Applied Sciences and Arts Western, Lausanne, Switzerland
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Panzeri A, Bottesi G, Ghisi M, Scalavicci C, Spoto A, Vidotto G. Emotional Regulation, Coping, and Resilience in Informal Caregivers: A Network Analysis Approach. Behav Sci (Basel) 2024; 14:709. [PMID: 39199105 PMCID: PMC11351438 DOI: 10.3390/bs14080709] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2024] [Revised: 08/07/2024] [Accepted: 08/08/2024] [Indexed: 09/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Public health emergencies such as the COVID-19 pandemic can further strain the mental health of informal caregivers who provide unpaid assistance to family members or friends who need support due to illness, disability, or aging. However, there is a lack of research exploring the resources and adaptive strategies that promote resilience in informal caregivers. This cross-sectional study used psychometric network analysis to model the interplay between coping strategies, emotion regulation, trait resilience, and anxiety and depression symptoms in 351 Italian informal caregivers. The results showed that coping through a positive attitude, emotional reappraisal, and trait resilience were the most central and interconnected nodes in the network. These adaptive strategies buffered against the negative impact of anxiety and depression symptoms, providing valuable insights into the mechanisms underlying resilience and well-being in informal caregivers. Clinically, it is crucial to assess and foster these resilience-promoting factors (positive attitude coping, cognitive reappraisal, and trait resilience) to help mitigate the mental health challenges faced by informal caregivers, especially in the context of public health crises such as the COVID-19 pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Panzeri
- Department of General Psychology, University of Padova, 35131 Padua, Italy
| | - Gioia Bottesi
- Department of General Psychology, University of Padova, 35131 Padua, Italy
| | - Marta Ghisi
- Department of General Psychology, University of Padova, 35131 Padua, Italy
- Unità Operativa Complessa (UOC) Hospital Psychology, Padua University Hospital, 35131 Padua, Italy
| | - Cecilia Scalavicci
- Department of General Psychology, University of Padova, 35131 Padua, Italy
| | - Andrea Spoto
- Department of General Psychology, University of Padova, 35131 Padua, Italy
| | - Giulio Vidotto
- Department of General Psychology, University of Padova, 35131 Padua, Italy
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Friedman EM, Edgington S, Escarce JJ, Ghosh-Dastidar B, Shih RA. Implications of Rebalancing Home-Based Care for Family Caregivers to Older Adults. J Appl Gerontol 2024:7334648241270025. [PMID: 39120543 DOI: 10.1177/07334648241270025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Over the last several decades, Medicaid has been "rebalancing" services from institutions to the community, increasing support of home- and community-based services (HCBS). These services could potentially substitute for care typically provided by family members, replacing or reducing care from kin. Leveraging one of the most recent Medicaid rebalancing programs, the Balancing Incentive Program (BIP), and using data from the 2008-2016 Health and Retirement Study on 953 Medicaid beneficiaries ages 65 and over with at least one functional limitation, we examined the relationship between exposure to BIP and family and professional caregiving. BIP exposure was not associated with receipt of care or total hours of care. It was, however, associated with more hours of professional care and fewer hours of family care from non-spouse kin. These findings suggest that recent Medicaid rebalancing programs, while intended to meet the desires of older adults, could have implications for their families.
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Affiliation(s)
- Esther M Friedman
- Institute for Social Research, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | | | | | | | - Regina A Shih
- RAND Corporation, Santa Monica, CA, USA
- Emory University, Atlanta, GA, USA
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13
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C VP, J OM. Time value of informal care of people with alzheimer's disease in Spain: a population-based analysis. THE EUROPEAN JOURNAL OF HEALTH ECONOMICS : HEPAC : HEALTH ECONOMICS IN PREVENTION AND CARE 2024:10.1007/s10198-024-01713-y. [PMID: 39117786 DOI: 10.1007/s10198-024-01713-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2023] [Accepted: 05/27/2024] [Indexed: 08/10/2024]
Abstract
The aims of this paper are to estimate the monetary value of informal care for people with Alzheimer's disease (AD) in Spain, to compare results with those obtained in 2008 and to analyse the main determinants of the time of the value of informal care. The Survey on Disabilities, Autonomy and Dependency carried out in Spain in 2020/21 was used to obtain information about disabled individuals with AD and their informal caregivers. Assessment of informal care time was carried out using two alternative approaches: the replacement method, and the contingent valuation method (willingness to pay & willingness to accept). The number of people with AD residing in Spanish households and receiving informal care rose to more than 200,000, representing an increase of 43% compared with 2008. The average number of hours of informal care per week ranged from 86 to 101 h, with an estimated value of between €31,584 - €37,019 per year per caregiver (willingness to accept) or €71,653 - €83,984 per year (replacement). The annual total number of caregiving hours ranged between 896 and 1,061 million hours, representing between 0.52 and 0.62 of GDP in 2021 (willingness to accept) or 1.19-1.40 of GDP (replacement). The level of care needs plays a central role in explaining heterogeneity in estimates. These results should be taken into account by decision-makers for long-term care planning in the coming years.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Oliva-Moreno J
- Department of Economic Analysis and Finance, University of Castilla-La Mancha, Toledo, Spain
- CIBER de Fragilidad y Envejecimiento Saludable, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
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14
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Jou J, Hicks A, Johnson PJ. Mental health and employment outcomes in working-age US adults, 2010-2019. Occup Med (Lond) 2024:kqae054. [PMID: 39058930 DOI: 10.1093/occmed/kqae054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/28/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Individuals with severe mental illness experience greater unemployment and barriers to workforce re-entry. However, less is known about additional indicators of employment stability for individuals across mental illness severity. AIMS This study aims to examine associations between mental illness severity, use and adequacy of mental health treatment, and indicators of employment stability. METHODS In this repeated cross-sectional study, 2010-2019 data from the U.S. National Survey of Drug Use and Health were used to construct multivariate logistic regression models predicting the odds of part-time employment, past-year work interruption, number of past-year employers, and past-month health-related work absence by mental illness severity and adequacy of mental health treatment. RESULTS Compared to individuals with no mental illness, those with any and severe mental illness had significantly higher odds of part-time employment (adjusted odds ratios [AORs] = 1.51 and 2.16, 95% confidence intervals [CIs] 1.4-1.6 and 2.0-2.3), multiple past-year employers (AORs = 1.78 and 2.34, CIs 1.7-1.9 and 2.1-2.6), past-year work interruption (AORs = 1.69 and 2.20, CIs 1.6-1.8 and 2.1-2.4), and >7 days of past-month work absence (AORs = 2.51 and 3.82, CIs 2.3-2.8 and 3.3-4.5). Among respondents with mental illness, perceived inadequacy of mental treatment predicted higher odds of all adverse employment outcomes. CONCLUSIONS Compared to those with no mental illness, individuals with mental illness of any severity have higher odds of employment instability. Policy and programmatic support aimed at addressing the needs of individuals with mental illness, including access to adequate mental health treatment, are needed to facilitate continued, competitive employment.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Jou
- Department of Health Science, California State University-Long Beach, Long Beach, CA 90840, USA
| | - A Hicks
- Department of Public Health, North Dakota State University, Fargo, ND 58105, USA
| | - P J Johnson
- Department of Public Health, North Dakota State University, Fargo, ND 58105, USA
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15
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Oliva-Moreno J, Vilaplana-Prieto C. Social costs associated with fibromyalgia in Spain. HEALTH ECONOMICS REVIEW 2024; 14:51. [PMID: 38997577 PMCID: PMC11245780 DOI: 10.1186/s13561-024-00527-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2024] [Accepted: 06/27/2024] [Indexed: 07/14/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Fibromyalgia is a chronic rheumatic disease of unknown aetiology, highly disabling and mainly affecting women. The aim of our work is to estimate, on a national scale, the economic impact of this disease on the employment of patients and non-professional (informal) care dimension. METHODS Survey on Disabilities, Autonomy and Dependency carried out in Spain in 2020/21 was used to obtain information on disabled individuals with AD and their informal caregivers. Six estimation scenarios were defined as base case, depending on whether the maximum daily informal caregiving time was censored or not, and on the approach chosen for the valuation of informal caregiving time (contingent valuation and replacement time). Another six conservative scenarios were developed using the minimum wage for the estimation of labour losses. RESULTS Our estimates range from 2,443.6 (willingness to pay, censored informal care time) to 7,164.8 million euros (replacement cost, uncensored informal care time) (base year 2021). Multivariate analyses identified that the degree of dependency of the person suffering from fibromyalgia is the main explanatory variable for both the probability of being employed and the time spent in informal care. Conservative scenarios estimates range from 1,807 to 6,528 million euros. CONCLUSIONS The high economic impact revealed should help to position a health problem that is relatively unknown in society and for which there are significant research and care gaps to be filled.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Oliva-Moreno
- Facultad de Ciencias Jurídicas y Sociales, Departamento de Análisis Económico y Finanzas, 45071, Toledo, Spain.
- CIBER de Fragilidad y Envejecimiento Saludable, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain.
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Goodwin RM, Utz RL, Elmore CE, Ornstein KA, Tay DL, Ellington L, Smith KR, Stephens CE. Leveraging Existing Datasets to Advance Family Caregiving Research: Opportunities to Measure What Matters. J Aging Soc Policy 2024; 36:562-580. [PMID: 38627368 PMCID: PMC11141766 DOI: 10.1080/08959420.2024.2320043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2023] [Accepted: 11/17/2023] [Indexed: 05/31/2024]
Abstract
More than 17.7 million people in the U.S. care for older adults. Analyzing population datasets can increase our understanding of the needs of family caregivers of older adults. We reviewed 14 U.S. population-based datasets (2003-2023) including older adults' and caregivers' data to assess inclusion and measurement of 8 caregiving science domains, with a focus on whether measures were validated and/or unique variables were used. Challenges exist related to survey design, sampling, and measurement. Findings highlight the need for consistent data collection by researchers, state, tribal, local, and federal programs, for improved utility of population-based datasets for caregiving and aging research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca M. Goodwin
- College of Nursing, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, USA
- National Library of Medicine, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, USA
| | - Rebecca L. Utz
- College of Social and Behavioral Science, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, USA
- Consortium for Families & Health Research, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, USA
- Family and Consumer Studies, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, USA
- Center on Aging, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, USA
- Family Caregiving Collaborative – Utah Caregiving Population Science, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, USA
| | | | | | - Djin L. Tay
- College of Nursing, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, USA
- College of Social and Behavioral Science, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, USA
- Family and Consumer Studies, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, USA
- Huntsman Cancer Institute, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, USA
| | - Lee Ellington
- College of Nursing, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, USA
- Consortium for Families & Health Research, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, USA
- Center on Aging, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, USA
- Family Caregiving Collaborative – Utah Caregiving Population Science, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, USA
| | - Ken R. Smith
- College of Social and Behavioral Science, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, USA
- Family and Consumer Studies, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, USA
- Family Caregiving Collaborative – Utah Caregiving Population Science, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, USA
- Huntsman Cancer Institute, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, USA
| | - Caroline E. Stephens
- College of Nursing, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, USA
- Consortium for Families & Health Research, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, USA
- Center on Aging, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, USA
- Family Caregiving Collaborative – Utah Caregiving Population Science, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, USA
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17
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Samuel PS, Marsack-Topolewski CN, Janks E, Raoufi G, Milberger S. Family Support of Older Caregivers: Factors Influencing Change in Quality of Life. AMERICAN JOURNAL ON INTELLECTUAL AND DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES 2024; 129:308-325. [PMID: 38917996 DOI: 10.1352/1944-7558-129.4.308] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2022] [Accepted: 01/30/2024] [Indexed: 06/27/2024]
Abstract
Understanding factors that can improve the quality of life (QOL) of older caregivers of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) is important in broadening participation in family empowerment interventions. The purpose of this study was to identify the factors influencing the QOL of older caregivers (50+) of adults with IDD who participated in a peer-mediated state-wide family support project. The research study used a quasi-experimental research design grounded in the family quality of life (FQOL) framework, with pretest and posttest data gathered from 82 caregivers. Correlation and regression analyses were conducted to identify factors influencing changes in the QOL of study participants. Findings indicated that improvements in caregiver QOL after participating in the project could be explained by caregiver's employment status, increased global FQOL, and decreased caregiver stress and depression.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Elizabeth Janks
- Elizabeth Janks, Gelareh Raoufi, and Sharon Milberger, Wayne State University
| | - Gelareh Raoufi
- Elizabeth Janks, Gelareh Raoufi, and Sharon Milberger, Wayne State University
| | - Sharon Milberger
- Elizabeth Janks, Gelareh Raoufi, and Sharon Milberger, Wayne State University
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18
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Kuharic M, Mulhern B, Sharp LK, Turpin RS, Pickard AS. Comparison of the EQ-HWB and EQ-HWB-S With Other Preference-Based Measures Among United States Informal Caregivers. VALUE IN HEALTH : THE JOURNAL OF THE INTERNATIONAL SOCIETY FOR PHARMACOECONOMICS AND OUTCOMES RESEARCH 2024; 27:967-977. [PMID: 38492925 DOI: 10.1016/j.jval.2024.03.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2023] [Revised: 02/14/2024] [Accepted: 03/05/2024] [Indexed: 03/18/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Several measures have been used or developed to capture the health and well-being of caregivers, including the EQ Health and Well-being (EQ-HWB) and its short form, EQ-HWB-S. This study aimed to evaluate the psychometric properties and construct validity of the EQ-HWB/EQ-HWB-S in a US caregiver population. METHODS A cross-sectional survey was conducted involving 504 caregivers. Eligible participants were 18+ years old, provided unpaid care to a relative/friend aged 18+ in the past 6 months, and spent on average of at least 1 hour per week caregiving. Survey included the following measures: EQ-HWB, Adult Social Care Outcomes Toolkit for Carers-Carer, CarerQol, and EQ-5D-5L. Psychometric properties were assessed using response distributions, floor/ceiling effects, Spearman's correlation for convergent validity, and effect sizes (ES) for known-group validity based on caregiving situations and intensity. RESULTS The average age of caregivers was 49.2 (SD = 15.4), with 57.5% being female. More than half (54.4%) reported high caregiving intensity, and 68.3% lived with the care recipient. The EQ-HWB-S index showed a strong positive correlation with the EQ-5D-5L (rs = 0.72), Adult Social Care Outcomes Toolkit for Carers (rs = 0.54), and CarerQol (rs = 0.54) indices. Notably, the EQ-HWB-S index showed the largest ES among measures in differentiating caregiving scenarios with a large ES for caregiver's general health (d = 1.00) and small ES for caregiving intensity (d = 0.39). CONCLUSIONS Results support construct validity of EQ-HWB and EQ-HWB-S as measures for assessing health and well-being of adult informal caregivers in comparison with other validated instruments. Differing levels of known-group validity across anchors emphasize the importance of selecting appropriate measures for caregivers, depending on research question and/or intervention aims.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maja Kuharic
- Department of Pharmacy Systems, Outcomes and Policy, College of Pharmacy, University of Illinois Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA; Department of Medical Social Sciences, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA.
| | - Brendan Mulhern
- Centre for Health Economics Research and Evaluation, University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Lisa K Sharp
- Department of Biobehavioral Nursing Science, College of Nursing, University of Illinois Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | | | - A Simon Pickard
- Department of Pharmacy Systems, Outcomes and Policy, College of Pharmacy, University of Illinois Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
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19
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Pickett AC, Valdez D, Sinclair KL, Kochell WJ, Fowler B, Werner NE. Social Media Discourse Related to Caregiving for Older Adults Living With Alzheimer Disease and Related Dementias: Computational and Qualitative Study. JMIR Aging 2024; 7:e59294. [PMID: 38896462 PMCID: PMC11222768 DOI: 10.2196/59294] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2024] [Revised: 05/19/2024] [Accepted: 05/26/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In the United States, caregivers of people living with Alzheimer disease and Alzheimer disease-related dementias (AD/ADRD) provide >16 billion hours of unpaid care annually. These caregivers experience high levels of stress and burden related to the challenges associated with providing care. Social media is an emerging space for individuals to seek various forms of support. OBJECTIVE We aimed to explore the primary topics of conversation on the social media site Reddit related to AD/ADRD. We then aimed to explore these topics in depth, specifically examining elements of social support and behavioral symptomology discussed by users. METHODS We first generated an unsupervised topic model from 6563 posts made to 2 dementia-specific subreddit forums (r/Alzheimers and r/dementia). Then, we conducted a manual qualitative content analysis of a random subset of these data to further explore salient themes in the corpus. RESULTS The topic model with the highest overall coherence score (0.38) included 10 topics, including caregiver burden, anxiety, support-seeking, and AD/ADRD behavioral symptomology. Qualitative analyses provided added context, wherein users sought emotional and informational support for many aspects of the care experience, including assistance in making key care-related decisions. Users expressed challenging and complex emotions on Reddit, which may be taboo to express in person. CONCLUSIONS Reddit users seek many different forms of support, including emotional and specific informational support, from others on the internet. Users expressed a variety of concerns, challenges, and behavioral symptoms to manage as part of the care experience. The unique (ie, anonymous and moderated) nature of the forum allowed for a safe space to express emotions free from documented caregiver stigma. Additional support structures are needed to assist caregivers of people living with AD/ADRD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew C Pickett
- Department of Health & Wellness Design, School of Public Health, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN, United States
| | - Danny Valdez
- Department of Applied Health Science, School of Public Health, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN, United States
| | - Kelsey L Sinclair
- Department of Applied Health Science, School of Public Health, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN, United States
| | - Wesley J Kochell
- Department of Applied Health Science, School of Public Health, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN, United States
| | - Boone Fowler
- Department of Applied Health Science, School of Public Health, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN, United States
| | - Nicole E Werner
- Department of Health & Wellness Design, School of Public Health, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN, United States
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20
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Korfhage T, Fischer-Weckemann B. Long-run consequences of informal elderly care and implications of public long-term care insurance. JOURNAL OF HEALTH ECONOMICS 2024; 96:102884. [PMID: 38749331 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhealeco.2024.102884] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2021] [Revised: 04/18/2024] [Accepted: 04/19/2024] [Indexed: 06/15/2024]
Abstract
We estimate a dynamic structural model of labor supply, retirement, and informal caregiving to study short and long-term costs of informal caregiving in Germany. Incorporating labor market frictions and the German tax and benefit system, we find that in the absence of Germany's public long-term insurance scheme, informal elderly care has adverse and persistent effects on labor market outcomes and, thus, negatively affects lifetime earnings and future pension benefits. These consequences of caregiving are heterogeneous and depend on age, previous earnings, and institutional regulations. Policy simulations suggest that while public long-term care insurance policies are fiscally costly and induce negative labor market effects, they can largely offset the personal costs of caregiving and increase welfare, especially for low-income individuals.
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21
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Michel YA, Aas E, Augestad LA, Burger E, Thoresen L, Bjørnelv GMW. Healthcare use and costs in the last six months of life by level of care and cause of death. BMC Health Serv Res 2024; 24:688. [PMID: 38816869 PMCID: PMC11140868 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-024-10877-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2023] [Accepted: 03/19/2024] [Indexed: 06/01/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Existing knowledge on healthcare use and costs in the last months of life is often limited to one patient group (i.e., cancer patients) and one level of healthcare (i.e., secondary care). Consequently, decision-makers lack knowledge in order to make informed decisions about the allocation of healthcare resources for all patients. Our aim is to elaborate the understanding of resource use and costs in the last six months of life by describing healthcare use and costs for all causes of death and by all levels of formal care. METHOD Using five national registers, we gained access to patient-level data for all individuals who died in Norway between 2009 and 2013. We described healthcare use and costs for all levels of formal care-namely primary, secondary, and home- and community-based care -in the last six months of life, both in total and differentiated across three time periods (6-4 months, 3-2 months, and 1-month before death). Our analysis covers all causes of death categorized in ten ICD-10 categories. RESULTS During their last six months of life, individuals used an average of healthcare resources equivalent to €46,000, ranging from €32,000 (Injuries) to €64,000 (Diseases of the nervous system and sense organs). In terms of care level, 63% of healthcare resources were used in home- and community-based care (i.e., in-home nursing, practical assistance, or nursing home care), 35% in secondary care (mostly hospital care), and 2% in primary care (i.e., general practitioners). The amount and level of care varied by cause of death and by time to death. The proportion of home- and community-based care which individuals received during their last six months of life varied from 38% for cancer patients to 92% for individuals dying with mental diseases. The shorter the time to death, the more resources were needed: nearly 40% of all end-of-life healthcare costs were expended in the last month of life across all causes of death. The composition of care also differed depending on age. Individuals aged 80 years and older used more home- and community-based care (77%) than individuals dying at younger ages (40%) and less secondary care (old: 21% versus young: 57%). CONCLUSIONS Our analysis provides valuable evidence on how much healthcare individuals receive in their last six months of life and the associated costs, broken down by level of care and cause of death. Healthcare use and costs varied considerably by cause of death, but were generally higher the closer a person was to death. Our findings enable decision-makers to make more informed resource-allocation decisions and healthcare planners to better anticipate future healthcare needs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yvonne Anne Michel
- Department of Health Management and Health Economics, Institute of Health and Society, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
- Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Applied Sciences Zittau/ Görlitz, Görlitz, Germany
| | - Eline Aas
- Department of Health Management and Health Economics, Institute of Health and Society, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
- Division for Health Services, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Oslo, Norway
| | - Liv Ariane Augestad
- Department of Health Management and Health Economics, Institute of Health and Society, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Emily Burger
- Department of Health Management and Health Economics, Institute of Health and Society, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
- Center for Health Decision Science, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Lisbeth Thoresen
- Department for Interdisciplinary Health Sciences, Institute of Health and Society, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Gudrun Maria Waaler Bjørnelv
- Department of Health Management and Health Economics, Institute of Health and Society, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway.
- Department of Public Health and Nursing, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway.
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Marsack-Topolewski CN, Samuel PS. Experiences of Parental Caregivers of Adults with Autism in Navigating the World of Employment. J Autism Dev Disord 2024:10.1007/s10803-024-06381-8. [PMID: 38764071 DOI: 10.1007/s10803-024-06381-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/24/2024] [Indexed: 05/21/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE Caregiving often presents challenges for parents, particularly for parents of loved ones with disabilities or health challenges, who need and/or want to be employed. This study describes the employment experiences of aging parents as they continue to balance engagement in the paid workforce with the ongoing provision of care for their adult children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The purpose of this study was to examine the lived experiences of parents of adult children with ASD in the context of balancing career and caregiving responsibilities. METHODS The current study uses a qualitative phenomenological research approach to describe the lived experiences of 51 parents who were caring for an adult child with ASD. The parents participated in telephone interviews to obtain information about their career experiences while providing care and support to their adult children with ASD. RESULTS Three caregiving themes emerged including: (a) difficulty balancing caregiving with work responsibilities, (b) reasons for working, not working, or working intermittently, and (c) work as an escape or wanting to work more. CONCLUSION As more individuals with ASD reach adulthood, often relying to varying extents on their families for daily support, parental employment will continue to be impacted as they juggle their career with caregiving responsibilities. Economically, one or more family members typically need to work to sustain the family's needs and employment support should be considered. As a society, families often need to make choices even with an adult child with ASD of who will work, how, and when.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christina N Marsack-Topolewski
- School of Social Work, Eastern Michigan University, 206H Everett L. Marshall Building, Ypsilanti, Ypsilanti, MI, 48197, USA.
| | - Preethy S Samuel
- College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, Wayne State University, 259 Mack Avenue, Detroit, MI, 48201, USA
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Kim H, Mahmood A, Kedia S, Ogunsanmi DO, Sharma S, Wyant DK. Impact of Residential Segregation on Healthcare Utilization and Perceived Quality of Care Among Informal Caregivers in the United States. J Racial Ethn Health Disparities 2024:10.1007/s40615-024-02018-9. [PMID: 38758399 DOI: 10.1007/s40615-024-02018-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2024] [Revised: 04/10/2024] [Accepted: 05/06/2024] [Indexed: 05/18/2024]
Abstract
This study aimed to investigate the impact of racial residential segregation on healthcare utilization and perceived quality of care among informal caregivers in the US. It further assessed potential variations in the estimated impact across caregivers' race and socioeconomic status. We used data from the Health Information National Trends Survey Data Linkage Project (fielded in 2020) for a sample of 583 self-identified informal caregivers in the US. Fitting a series of regression models with the maximum likelihood estimation, we computed the beta coefficients (β) of interest and their associated Wald 95% confidence limits (CI). Caregivers who resided in areas with higher segregation, compared to those living in lower segregated areas, were less likely to visit a healthcare professional [β = - 2.08; Wald 95%CI - 2.093, - 2.067] (moderate); [β = - 2.53; Wald 95%CI - 2.549, - 2.523] (high)]. Further, caregivers residing in moderate [β = - 0.766; Wald 95%CI - 0.770, - 0.761] and high [β = - 0.936; Wald 95%CI - 0.941, - 0.932] segregation regions were less likely to perceive a better quality of care compared to those located in low segregation areas. Moreover, as segregation level increased, Black caregivers were less likely to see a health professional, less frequently used healthcare services, and had poorer perceived healthcare quality when compared to Whites. Our findings indicate that higher residential segregation is associated with lower healthcare utilization, such as visiting a healthcare professional, and poorer perceived healthcare quality among informal caregivers. Given the essential role of informal caregivers in the current healthcare system, it is vital to investigate and address challenges associated with access to and quality of essential healthcare services to improve caregivers' health and well-being, specifically for caregivers of minority backgrounds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hyunmin Kim
- College of Nursing and Health Professions, School of Health Professions, The University of Southern Mississippi, Hattiesburg, MS, USA
| | - Asos Mahmood
- Center for Health System Improvement, College of Medicine, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, 956 Court Ave Avenue, Ste D222A, Memphis, TN, 38103, USA.
- Department of Medicine-General Internal Medicine, College of Medicine, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN, USA.
| | - Satish Kedia
- Division of Social and Behavioral Sciences, School of Public Health, The University of Memphis, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Deborah O Ogunsanmi
- Tennessee Population Health Consortium and Institute for Health Outcomes and Policy Research, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Sadikshya Sharma
- College of Nursing and Health Professions, School of Health Professions, The University of Southern Mississippi, Hattiesburg, MS, USA
| | - David K Wyant
- Jack C. Massey College of Business, Frist College of Medicine, Belmont University, Nashville, TN, USA
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Lee MMS, Yeoh EK, Wang K, Wong ELY. Caregiver Employees' Mental Well-Being in Hong Kong. Healthcare (Basel) 2024; 12:1013. [PMID: 38786422 PMCID: PMC11121220 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare12101013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2024] [Revised: 05/01/2024] [Accepted: 05/11/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The rapidly aging global population has increased the demand for caregivers. Many caregivers simultaneously engage in paid employment, and the dual role makes the needs of caregiver employees conceivably more remarkable. However, there is a gap in the literature about the specific needs of caregiver employees. METHOD Caregiver employees (n = 1205) across Hong Kong caring for those ≥65 years were recruited for a cross-sectional face-to-face survey from December 2021 to January 2022, to evaluate mental well-being measured by the Short Warwick -Edinburgh Mental Well-being Scale. Univariate and multivariate analyses were conducted; significant variables (p < 0.05) were included in multiple linear regression, along with caregiver-friendly workplace policies' availability, to understand their association with their mental well-being. FINDINGS The mean score of the Short Warwick-Edinburgh Mental Well-being Scale among caregiver employees in this study was 24.9, with 7.2% indicative of probable clinical depression and 10.0% possible mild depression. In addition, the current study showed that 30.2% of the caregiver employees felt distressed about the caregiving role. Among external factors, family support (measured by the Lubben Social Network Scale) and workplace culture (measured by the Marshall Supervision Subscale) positively correlated with mental well-being with regression coefficients of 0.252 (p < 0.001) and 0.482 (p < 0.001), respectively. In the fully adjusted model, a negative regression coefficient was observed for overall spillover (-0.050, p < 0.001) and Short Warwick-Edinburgh Mental Well-being Scale scores, while positive regression coefficients were observed for overall self-rate (0.041, p < 0.001), Lubben (0.124, p < 0.001), and corporate culture (0.365, p < 0.001). Better Short Warwick-Edinburgh Mental Well-being Scale scores were observed when caregiver-friendly workplace policies were clearly stated than when they were made on a case-by-case discretionary basis. CONCLUSIONS Caregiver-friendly workplace policies may be critical to Hong Kong's sustainable future, both economically and socially, as they ensure a healthy and productive workforce to support an aging population.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Eliza Lai-Yi Wong
- The Jockey Club School of Public Health and Primary Care, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Central Avenue, Hong Kong, China; (M.M.-S.L.); (E.-K.Y.); (K.W.)
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Hollingshaus M, Smith KR, Meeks H, Ornstein K, Iacob E, Tay D, Stephens C, Utz RL. Mortality risk following end-of-life caregiving: A population-based analysis of hospice users and their families. Soc Sci Med 2024; 348:116781. [PMID: 38547806 DOI: 10.1016/j.socscimed.2024.116781] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2023] [Revised: 03/07/2024] [Accepted: 03/10/2024] [Indexed: 04/29/2024]
Abstract
Experiencing the death of a family member and providing end-of-life caregiving can be stressful on families - this is well-documented in both the caregiving and bereavement literatures. Adopting a linked-lived theoretical perspective, exposure to the death and dying of one family member could be conceptualized as a significant life stressor that produces short and long-term health consequences for surviving family members. This study uses familial-linked administrative records from the Utah Population Database to assess how variations in family hospice experiences affect mortality risk for surviving spouses and children. A cohort of hospice decedents living in Utah between 1998 and 2016 linked to their spouses and adult children (n = 37,271 pairs) provides an ideal study population because 1) hospice typically involves family members in the planning and delivery of end-of-life care, and 2) hospice admission represents a conscious awareness and acknowledgment that the decedent is entering an end-of-life experience. Thus, hospice duration (measured as the time between admission and death) is a precise measure of the family's exposure to an end-of-life stressor. Linking medical records, vital statistics, and other administrative microdata to describe decedent-kin pairs, event-history models assessed how hospice duration and characteristics of the family, including familial network size and coresidence with the decedent, were associated with long-term mortality risk of surviving daughters, sons, wives (widows), and husbands (widowers). Longer hospice duration increased mortality risk for daughters and husbands, but not sons or wives. Having other family members in the state was protective, and living in the same household as the decedent prior to death was a risk factor for sons. We conclude that relationship type and sex likely modify the how of end-of-life stressors (i.e., potential caregiving demands and bereavement experiences) affect health because of normative gender roles. Furthermore, exposure to dementia deaths may be particularly stressful, especially for women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mike Hollingshaus
- Senior Demographer, Kem C. Gardner Policy Institute, David Eccles School of Business, University of Utah, United States.
| | - Ken R Smith
- Distinguished Professor Emeritus, Department of Family and Consumer Studies, University of Utah, United States.
| | - Huong Meeks
- Assistant Professor, Pediatrics, University of Utah, United States.
| | | | - Eli Iacob
- Assistant Research Professor, College of Nursing, University of Utah, United States.
| | - Djin Tay
- Assistant Professor, College of Nursing, University of Utah, United States.
| | - Caroline Stephens
- Associate Professor, College of Nursing, University of Utah, United States.
| | - Rebecca L Utz
- Professor, Sociology Department, University of Utah, United States.
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Gessa GD, Deindl C. Determinants of Trajectories of Informal Caregiving in later life. Evidence from England. RESEARCH SQUARE 2024:rs.3.rs-4027872. [PMID: 38746327 PMCID: PMC11092806 DOI: 10.21203/rs.3.rs-4027872/v1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/16/2024]
Abstract
Although long-term consequences of informal care provision are well investigated, fewer studies have examined trajectories of informal care provision among older people and the socioeconomic, demographic, health, and family characteristics associated with them. We use data from four waves of the English Longitudinal Study of Ageing, with 6,561 respondents followed for 6 years (2012/3 to 2018/9). We used group-based trajectory modelling to group people's provision of care over time into a finite number of distinct trajectories of caregiving. Using multinomial logistic regressions, we then investigated characteristics associated with these trajectories. Four distinct trajectories were identified representing "stable intensive", "increasing intensive", "decreasing", and "stable no care". Results suggest that, although there are socioeconomic, demographic, and health differences across the trajectories of caregiving (with younger women in good health and poorer socioeconomic status more likely to care intensively throughout), family characteristics are their main drivers. Respondents who live alone, with no children, and no parents alive are more likely to never provide care, whereas those with older parents and who live with adults in poor health are more likely to provide stable intensive care. Also, changes in family characteristics (e.g. death of parents, widowhood, or deterioration of the partner's health) are associated with trajectories representing increases or decreases of caregiving over time. Overall, trajectories of informal caregiving undertaken by older people are varied and these patterns are mostly associated with both the availability and health of family members, suggesting that the needs factors represent the most immediate reason for caregiving commitments.
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Roquebert Q, Tenand M. Informal care at old age at home and in nursing homes: determinants and economic value. THE EUROPEAN JOURNAL OF HEALTH ECONOMICS : HEPAC : HEALTH ECONOMICS IN PREVENTION AND CARE 2024; 25:497-511. [PMID: 37296350 PMCID: PMC10972991 DOI: 10.1007/s10198-023-01601-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2021] [Accepted: 05/24/2023] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
This paper provides a comprehensive analysis of informal care receipt by the French individuals aged 60 or older. The literature has focused on the community, leaving informal care in residential care settings in the shadow. We leverage data from a representative survey (CARE) conducted in 2015-2016 on both community-dwelling individuals and nursing home residents. Focusing on the 60+ with activity restrictions, we show that 76% of nursing home residents receive help with the activities of daily living from relatives, against 55% in the community. The number of hours conditional on receipt is yet 3.5 times higher in the community. Informal care represents 186 million hours per month and a value equivalent to 1.1% of GDP at least, care in the community representing 95% of the total. We investigate the determinants of informal care receipt. Using an Oaxaca-type approach, we disentangle between two mechanisms explaining that nursing home residents are more likely to receive informal care, namely the differences in population composition (endowments) and the differences in the association of individual characteristics with informal care (coefficients). Both are found to have a similar contribution. Our results imply that private costs make up for the majority (76%) of the costs associated with long-term care provision once informal care is taken into account. They also highlight that informal care is extremely common for nursing home residents. Existing evidence on the determinants of informal care receipt in the community has, however, limited relevance to understand informal care behaviors in nursing homes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Quitterie Roquebert
- Université de Strasbourg, Université de Lorraine, CNRS, BETA, 67000, Strasbourg, France
| | - Marianne Tenand
- Erasmus School of Health Policy & Management (ESHPM), Erasmus Centre for Health Economics Rotterdam (EsCHER), Erasmus University Rotterdam (EUR) and the Netherlands Bureau for Economic Policy Analysis (CPB), Rotterdam and The Hague, The Netherlands.
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28
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Pociask FD, Adamo DE, DiZazzo-Miller R. Physical Fitness and Cognitive Function in Persons with Dementia and their Caregiver. Occup Ther Health Care 2024; 38:331-346. [PMID: 38385311 DOI: 10.1080/07380577.2024.2318567] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2023] [Accepted: 02/10/2024] [Indexed: 02/23/2024]
Abstract
A cross-sectional design investigated the physical attributes of 15 dyads of people with dementia and their caregivers. Physical and cognitive markers determined deviations from clinical thresholds for loss of functional independence, where 100% of participants performed below criterion-referenced threshold values for aerobic endurance. Walking distance for people with dementia was associated with bath/shower activity (p = .007), transfers (p < .001), and mobility (p = .013). Less distance walked was associated with more assistance with self-care tasks. Physical deficits associated with low aerobic endurance and lower body strength compromised independence, placing dyads at risk for falls and mobility-related health issues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fredrick D Pociask
- Department of Health Care Sciences, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI, USA
| | - Diane E Adamo
- Department of Health Care Sciences, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI, USA
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29
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Methi F, Nes RB, Skirbekk V, Hansen T. The double-edged sword of becoming a caregiver: dynamic impact on four dimensions of well-being in Norway. BMC Psychol 2024; 12:120. [PMID: 38439109 PMCID: PMC10913458 DOI: 10.1186/s40359-024-01623-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2024] [Accepted: 02/25/2024] [Indexed: 03/06/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Becoming a caregiver can be a transformative journey with profound, multifaceted implications for well-being. However, existing research predominantly emphasizes the negative aspects of caregiving, paying less attention to the positive sides. This study aims to explore the impact of transitioning into a caregiving role on various well-being indicators, such as negative hedonic, positive hedonic, eudaimonic, and social well-being. METHODS We use Norwegian panel data (2019-2021) and employ a combination of nearest-neighbour matching and a difference-in-differences approach to analyse well-being trajectories among new caregivers (n = 304) and non-caregivers (n = 7822). We assess ten items capturing the dimensions of negative hedonic (anxiousness, sadness, and worriedness), positive hedonic (happiness and life satisfaction), eudaimonic (contributing to others' happiness, engagement, and meaning), and social (strong social relations and loneliness) well-being. RESULTS Our results show a general increase in negative hedonic well-being and a decline in positive hedonic well-being for new caregivers. These impacts are larger for caregivers providing daily care, compared to those providing weekly and monthly care, and for those providing care inside rather than outside their own household. We observe only minor differences regarding gender and age. Interestingly, we also notice neutral or beneficial changes for eudaimonic aspects of well-being; of note, caregivers generally experience an increased sense of contributing to others' happiness. CONCLUSION Our study reveals that adopting a caregiving role often leads to significant psychosocial challenges, especially in intensive caregiving situations. However, it also uncovers potential positive influences on eudaimonic aspects of well-being. Future research should explore underlying explanatory mechanisms, to inform strategies that enhance caregivers' well-being.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fredrik Methi
- Department of Health Services, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Postboks 222, Skøyen, N-0213, Oslo, Norway.
| | - Ragnhild Bang Nes
- Department of Mental Health and Suicide, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Oslo, Norway
- Promenta Research Center, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
- Department of Philosophy, Classics, and History of Arts and Ideas, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Vegard Skirbekk
- Center for Fertility and Health, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Oslo, Norway
- Department of Psychology, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Thomas Hansen
- Department of Mental Health and Suicide, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Oslo, Norway
- Promenta Research Center, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
- Oslo Metropolitan University, Oslo, Norway
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30
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Ellis KR, Raji D, Pennings JS, Thorpe RJ, Bruce MA. Caregiving and Obesity among Black American Adults. SOCIAL WORK RESEARCH 2024; 48:38-47. [PMID: 38455109 PMCID: PMC10915901 DOI: 10.1093/swr/svae002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2022] [Revised: 12/19/2022] [Accepted: 01/26/2023] [Indexed: 03/09/2024]
Abstract
Black American adults often report higher rates of obesity and caregiving compared with other racial or ethnic groups. Consequently, many Black American caregivers and care recipients are obese or have obesity-related chronic conditions (e.g., diabetes, hypertension). This study investigated associations between caregiving and obesity among Black Americans, including the role of health behaviors and chronic conditions. The sample included data from 2015 and 2017 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System for non-Hispanic Black (NHB) or African American adult caregivers (n = 2,562) and noncaregivers (n = 7,027). The association between obesity (dependent variable) and caregiving status, fruit consumption, vegetable consumption, physical activity, and number of chronic conditions (independent variables) were evaluated using hierarchical binomial logistic regressions. Caregiving, being female, and chronic conditions were associated with higher odds of obesity, while physical activity was associated with lower odds of obesity. Physical activity, diet, and chronic conditions did not account for differences in obesity among caregiving and noncaregiving Black Americans. Increasing understanding of health behaviors and chronic disease burden of NHB caregivers has implications for programs aiming to improve obesity-related outcomes for caregivers and recipients. Future research should investigate multilevel factors that contribute to observed differences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katrina R Ellis
- PhD, MPH, MSW, is assistant professor, School of Social Work, University of Michigan, 1080 South University Avenue, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
| | - Dolapo Raji
- MPH, MHI, is research associate specialist intermediate, School of Public Health, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Jacquelyn S Pennings
- PhD, PStat, is research associate professor, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Department of Biostatistics, Center for Musculoskeletal Research, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Roland J Thorpe
- PhD, is professor, Program for Research on Men’s Health, Hopkins Center for Health Disparities Solutions, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - Marino A Bruce
- PhD, is associate dean for research and clinical professor, Tilman J. Fertitta Family College of Medicine, University of Houston, Houston, TX, USA
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31
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Elliott J, Francetic I, Meacock R, Sutton M. Do Informal Care Recipients Internalise Carer Burden? Examining the Impact of Informal Care Receipt on Health Behaviours. APPLIED HEALTH ECONOMICS AND HEALTH POLICY 2024; 22:209-225. [PMID: 38198104 PMCID: PMC10864417 DOI: 10.1007/s40258-023-00843-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/11/2023] [Indexed: 01/11/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Providing informal care has a negative effect on the caregiver's health and well-being, but little is known about how individuals respond to receiving informal care. Care recipients may improve their health behaviours to minimise the onerousness of caregiving and the stress faced by their carer from seeing a loved one in ill-health. OBJECTIVE We aimed to examine whether informal care recipients internalise the potential for carer spillovers through changes in health behaviours. METHODS We used data from 3250 older adults with care needs who took part in the UK Household Longitudinal Study between 2017 and 2019. We examined the response to informal care receipt in terms of the probability of engaging in four health behaviours: healthy diet, physical activity, smoking and alcohol consumption. We estimated average treatment effects using regression adjustment with inverse probability treatment weights, comparing individuals that received informal care to those receiving either formal or no care. RESULTS We found that informal care receipt increased the probability of refraining from negative health behaviours (smoking and alcohol consumption) but reduced the probability of engaging in positive health behaviours (eating fruits and/or vegetables and physical activity). CONCLUSIONS The asymmetric effects detected suggest that the underlying mechanisms are different, and care recipients may be engaging in risk and effort compensation between negative and positive health behaviours. Failure to account for the behavioural responses from informal care recipients may lead to under-estimation or over-estimation of the extent of caregiving burden and the effectiveness of interventions impacting informal carers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jack Elliott
- Health Organisation, Policy and Economics, Division of Population Health, Health Services Research and Primary Care, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, School of Health Services, The University of Manchester, Williamson building, 176 Oxford Road, Manchester, M13 9QQ, UK.
| | - Igor Francetic
- Health Organisation, Policy and Economics, Division of Population Health, Health Services Research and Primary Care, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, School of Health Services, The University of Manchester, Williamson building, 176 Oxford Road, Manchester, M13 9QQ, UK
| | - Rachel Meacock
- Health Organisation, Policy and Economics, Division of Population Health, Health Services Research and Primary Care, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, School of Health Services, The University of Manchester, Williamson building, 176 Oxford Road, Manchester, M13 9QQ, UK
| | - Matt Sutton
- Health Organisation, Policy and Economics, Division of Population Health, Health Services Research and Primary Care, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, School of Health Services, The University of Manchester, Williamson building, 176 Oxford Road, Manchester, M13 9QQ, UK
- Melbourne Institute, Applied Economic and Social Research, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
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Scheuermann JS, Gräßel E, Pendergrass A. [Reconciling Employment and Informal Caregiving for an Elderly Person at Home: Factors Influencing a Reduction in Employment due to Caregiving and Work-Related Wishes of Informal Caregivers]. DAS GESUNDHEITSWESEN 2024; 86:S45-S53. [PMID: 38395038 PMCID: PMC10949857 DOI: 10.1055/a-2191-2074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/25/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Reconciling informal caregiving and gainful employment is a challenge for many informal caregivers. The goals of this paper are to identify factors influencing care-related employment reduction, and to record work-related wishes for improving the compatibility of informal caregiving and being employed. METHODS Analyses were based on the cross-sectional Benefits of Being a Caregiver Study of 426 employed caregivers of an older person in need of care. Data were collected on characteristics of the care receivers and caregivers, and aspects of the caregiving and employment situation. Potential influencing factors of care-related employment reduction (n=426) were analyzed using binary logistic regression. The wishes regarding the compatibility of informal care at home and employment were examined descriptively using structured content analysis according to Mayring. RESULTS One quarter of the employed informal caregivers (n=108) reduced their hours of employment due to the demands of caregiving. The profile of influencing factors of a care-related employment reduction was composed of a higher number of working hours, higher effort for activities of daily living, and co-residence with the care receiver. Employed caregivers primarily expressed a desire for flexibility in working hours, a reduction in working hours, and some concessions with regard to absenteeism. CONCLUSIONS Relieving the burden on caregivers in the activities of daily living in form of formal and informal support services can probably reduce the likelihood of a care-related reduction in gainful employment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia-Sophia Scheuermann
- Zentrum für Medizinische Versorgungsforschung, Psychiatrische
und Psychotherapeutische Klinik, Uniklinikum Erlangen,
Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU),
Erlangen, Germany
| | - Elmar Gräßel
- Zentrum für Medizinische Versorgungsforschung, Psychiatrische
und Psychotherapeutische Klinik, Uniklinikum Erlangen,
Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU),
Erlangen, Germany
| | - Anna Pendergrass
- Zentrum für Medizinische Versorgungsforschung, Psychiatrische
und Psychotherapeutische Klinik, Uniklinikum Erlangen,
Friedrich-Alexander-Universität Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU),
Erlangen, Germany
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33
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Scheuermann JS, Gräßel E, Pendergrass A. [Care-related Termination of Employment among Informal Caregivers of Elderly Persons: Identification of a Risk Profile]. DAS GESUNDHEITSWESEN 2024; 86:S37-S44. [PMID: 38395037 PMCID: PMC11323155 DOI: 10.1055/a-2183-6741] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/25/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Employed informal caregivers often experience role conflicts between caring for an elderly person in need of care at home and their employment. The goal of this paper was to identify a risk profile of care-related termination of employment. METHODS Analyses are based on the cross-sectional Benefits of Being a Caregiver Study (October 2019 - March 2020) with data from 481 informal caregivers of elderly persons in need of care. The data collected relate to characteristics of the care recipient, the informal caregiver, and the caregiving situation, as well as aspects of the employment situation. The risk profile of care-related cessation of employment is based on a binary logistic regression. RESULTS Approximately one in nine in the present sample (n=55) terminated employment because of having to offer informal care to an elderly person at home. Factors characterizing the risk profile of a care-related termination of employment were female gender of the caregivers, younger age of the care receiver, co-residence with the care receiver, and a higher care level of the care receiver. CONCLUSIONS In order to reduce care-related cessation of employment, support and relief services need to be adapted to the factors of the identified risk profile. In particular, the form and content of informal caregiver counselling should be modified in order to reach informal caregivers at an early stage. Adapted support programs should focus on and reach in particular female employed caregivers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia-Sophia Scheuermann
- Zentrum für Medizinische Versorgungsforschung, Psychiatrische und
Psychotherapeutische Klinik, Uniklinikum Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität
Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), Erlangen, Germany
| | - Elmar Gräßel
- Zentrum für Medizinische Versorgungsforschung, Psychiatrische und
Psychotherapeutische Klinik, Uniklinikum Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität
Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), Erlangen, Germany
| | - Anna Pendergrass
- Zentrum für Medizinische Versorgungsforschung, Psychiatrische und
Psychotherapeutische Klinik, Uniklinikum Erlangen, Friedrich-Alexander-Universität
Erlangen-Nürnberg (FAU), Erlangen, Germany
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Elayan S, Angelini V, Buskens E, de Boer A. The Economic Costs of Informal Care: Estimates from a National Cross-Sectional Survey in The Netherlands. THE EUROPEAN JOURNAL OF HEALTH ECONOMICS : HEPAC : HEALTH ECONOMICS IN PREVENTION AND CARE 2024:10.1007/s10198-023-01666-8. [PMID: 38294595 DOI: 10.1007/s10198-023-01666-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2023] [Accepted: 12/21/2023] [Indexed: 02/01/2024]
Abstract
Faced with an unprecedented demand for long-term care, European health care systems are moving towards mixed care models, where the welfare state and informal caregivers share care responsibilities. While informal care is often viewed as a means of alleviating pressure on public care, it comes with significant economic costs for caregivers, their employers, and society at large. This study uses nationally representative data to estimate the total direct (informal care time and out-of-pocket costs) and indirect (productivity) economic costs of informal care in the Netherlands in 2019. Informal care time costs are estimated using the opportunity cost and the proxy good methods. Indirect costs are estimated using the human capital and friction cost approaches. Our results reveal the considerable annual societal cost of informal care in the Netherlands, ranging between €17.5 billion and €30.1 billion, depending on the valuation approach. These costs are equivalent to 2.15% and 3.71% of Dutch GDP in 2019, comparable to the public expenditure on long-term care in that year. Female caregivers account for slightly more than half (53%-57%) of the total costs. Around 57%-88% of these costs are in the form of informal care time. The main driver of indirect costs is the temporary cessation of work, which comprises 12%-17% of the total costs. Findings corroborate that substantial resources, yet thus far largely disregarded, are spent on informal care even in a country with a relatively generous public long-term care system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saif Elayan
- Department of Economics, Econometrics and Finance, Faculty of Economics and Business, University of Groningen, Nettelbosje 2, 9747 AE, Groningen, The Netherlands.
| | - Viola Angelini
- Department of Economics, Econometrics and Finance, Faculty of Economics and Business, University of Groningen, Nettelbosje 2, 9747 AE, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Erik Buskens
- Department of Epidemiology, University Medical Centre Groningen, University of Groningen, Hanzeplein 1, 9700 RB, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Alice de Boer
- Faculty of Social Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, 1081 HV, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- The Netherlands Institute for Social Research (SCP), 2500 BD, The Hague, The Netherlands
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Elayan S, Bei E, Ferraris G, Fisher O, Zarzycki M, Angelini V, Ansmann L, Buskens E, Hagedoorn M, von Kutzleben M, Lamura G, Looijmans A, Sanderman R, Vilchinsky N, Morrison V. Cohort profile: The ENTWINE iCohort study, a multinational longitudinal web-based study of informal care. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0294106. [PMID: 38236932 PMCID: PMC10796045 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0294106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2022] [Accepted: 10/25/2023] [Indexed: 01/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Informal care is a key pillar of long-term care provision across Europe and will likely play an even greater role in the future. Thus, research that enhances our understanding of caregiving experiences becomes increasingly relevant. The ENTWINE iCohort Study examines the personal, psychological, social, economic, and geographic factors that shape caregiving experiences. Here, we present the baseline cohort of the study and describe its design, recruitment methods, data collection procedures, measures, and early baseline findings. The study was conducted in nine countries: Germany, Greece, Ireland, Israel, Italy, the Netherlands, Poland, Sweden, and the United Kingdom. The study comprised a web-based longitudinal survey (baseline + 6-month follow-up) and optional weekly diary assessments conducted separately with caregivers and care recipients. From 14 August 2020 to 31 August 2021, 1872 caregivers and 402 care recipients were enrolled at baseline. Participants were recruited via Facebook and, to a lesser extent, via the study website or caregiver/patient organisations. Caregiver participants were predominantly female (87%) and primary caregivers (82%), with a median age of 55 years. A large proportion (80%) held at least post-secondary education, and two-thirds were married/partnered. Over half of the caregivers were employed (53%) and caring for a person with multiple chronic conditions (56%), and nearly three-quarters were caring for either a parent (42%) or a spouse/partner (32%). About three-quarters of care recipient participants were female (77%), not employed (74%), and had at least post-secondary education (77%), with a median age of 55 years. Over half of the care recipients were married/partnered (59%), receiving care primarily from their spouses/partners (61%), and diagnosed with multiple chronic conditions (57%). This study examining numerous potential influences on caregiving experiences provides an opportunity to better understand the multidimensional nature of these experiences. Such data could have implications for developing caregiving services and policies, and for future informal care research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saif Elayan
- Faculty of Economics and Business, Department of Economics, Econometrics and Finance, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Eva Bei
- Faculty of Social Sciences, Department of Psychology, Bar-Ilan University, Ramat Gan, Israel
| | - Giulia Ferraris
- Department of Health Psychology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Oliver Fisher
- Department of Economics and Social Sciences, Università Politecnica delle Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - Mikołaj Zarzycki
- Department of Psychology, Liverpool Hope University, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Viola Angelini
- Faculty of Economics and Business, Department of Economics, Econometrics and Finance, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Lena Ansmann
- Department of Health Services Research, Division of Organizational Health Services Research, University of Oldenburg, Oldenburg, Germany
- Faculty of Medicine, Institute of Medical Sociology, Health Services Research and Rehabilitation Science (IMVR), University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Erik Buskens
- Department of Epidemiology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Mariët Hagedoorn
- Department of Health Psychology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Milena von Kutzleben
- Department of Health Services Research, Division of Organizational Health Services Research, University of Oldenburg, Oldenburg, Germany
| | - Giovanni Lamura
- IRCCS INRCA-National Institute of Health and Science on Ageing, Centre for Socio-Economic Research on Ageing, Ancona, Italy
| | - Anne Looijmans
- Department of Health Psychology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Robbert Sanderman
- Department of Health Psychology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Noa Vilchinsky
- Faculty of Social Sciences, Department of Psychology, Bar-Ilan University, Ramat Gan, Israel
| | - Val Morrison
- School of Human and Behavioural Sciences, Bangor University, Bangor, United Kingdom
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Dang S, Looijmans A, Lamura G, Hagedoorn M. Perceived life balance among young adult students: a comparison between caregivers and non-caregivers. BMC Psychol 2024; 12:18. [PMID: 38185676 PMCID: PMC10773020 DOI: 10.1186/s40359-023-01500-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2023] [Accepted: 12/19/2023] [Indexed: 01/09/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Young adult caregivers (YACs) are individuals aged 18-25 years who provide care to a loved one (parent, sibling) with frailty, disability, or illness. As young adults, the transition period between adolescence and adulthood can be more challenging for YACs than their peers without care responsibilities (non-YACs), as they have to integrate caregiving with other life areas (education, relationships). This study compared the perceived life balance and the psychological functioning (i.e., burnout, negative and positive affect, and life satisfaction) between YACs and non-YACs. METHOD An online cross-sectional survey was conducted among 74 YACs (85.1% females, 22.0 ± 2.1 years) and 246 non-YACs (76.0% females, 21.8 ± 2.0 years) studying in the Netherlands. The survey assessed demographic characteristics, caregiving characteristics (to be filled out only by the YACs), life balance, and psychological functioning. We used Chi-square tests for categorical variables and independent T-tests for continuous variables to examine possible differences in demographic characteristics between YACs and non-YACs. In addition, we used independent T-tests to compare the perceived life balance and psychological functioning between YACs and non-YACs. RESULTS YACs and non-YACs were similar on all the demographic characteristics, except for living status; fewer YACs (44.6%) than non-YACs (59.3%) lived on their own, with or without other students/friends (χ2 = 16.3, p = 0.01). YACs perceived slightly less balance in life than non-YACs (d = -.29, p = .03). Both groups did not differ in experiencing burnout, affect, and life satisfaction (all p > .05). They experienced high levels of burnout and moderate levels of life satisfaction. DISCUSSION Although YACs perceived a little less balance in life than non-YACs, this was not reflected in their psychological functioning. Healthcare professionals and school counselors may need to recognise the critical phase of all young adults and provide the support that could, for example, help them reduce burnout and enhance their quality of life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Srishti Dang
- Department of Health Psychology, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands.
| | - Anne Looijmans
- Department of Health Psychology, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Giovanni Lamura
- INRCA IRCCS - National Institute of Health and Science On Aging, Ancona, Italy
| | - Mariët Hagedoorn
- Department of Health Psychology, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
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Mobolaji JW. Unmet Needs for Support in Activities of Daily Living among Older Persons: The Effects of Family and Household Structures in a Low- and Middle-Income Context. Geriatrics (Basel) 2024; 9:5. [PMID: 38247980 PMCID: PMC10801536 DOI: 10.3390/geriatrics9010005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2023] [Revised: 10/29/2023] [Accepted: 11/06/2023] [Indexed: 01/23/2024] Open
Abstract
The unmet need for assistance in activities of daily living (ADLs) accentuates older persons' risk of falls, ill health, hospitalisation, and mortality. In Nigeria, the family arrangements through which older persons derive support are changing due to modernisation, migration, and economic challenges. How the family dynamics explain the unmet needs is poorly understood. This study investigates the influence of family and household structures on older persons' unmet needs in ADLs in southwestern Nigeria. The study analysed the data of 827 older adults aged ≥65 years selected from Oyo State, southwestern Nigeria, using a multi-stage sampling design. Associations were examined using the Poisson-logit hurdle regression model. From the results, 65% of older persons with difficulties had unmet needs in instrumental ADLs and 59% in basic ADLs. Increased unmet needs were associated with older persons living with non-family members (β = 0.19; p < 0.01; 95% C.I. = 0.05-0.32) and widows (β = 0.27; p < 0.01; 95% C.I. = 0.13-0.42). Conversely, unmet needs decreased with higher family size (β = -0.06; p < 0.001; 95% C.I. = -0.08--0.03), living in rich households (β = -0.29; p < 0.001; 95% C.I. = -0.42--0.17), not being the household head (β = -0.27; p < 0.001; 95% C.I. = -0.40--0.15), close family bonds, and proximity to children/caregivers. The study recommends alternative or complementary home-based support mechanisms for seniors with vulnerable family settings in southwestern Nigeria.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacob Wale Mobolaji
- Department of Demography and Social Statistics, Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife 220282, Nigeria
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Guede-Fernández F, Silva Pinto T, Semedo H, Vital C, Coelho P, Oliosi ME, Azevedo S, Dias P, Londral A. Enhancing postoperative anticoagulation therapy with remote patient monitoring: A pilot crossover trial study to evaluate portable coagulometers and chatbots in cardiac surgery follow-up. Digit Health 2024; 10:20552076241269515. [PMID: 39139188 PMCID: PMC11319326 DOI: 10.1177/20552076241269515] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2024] [Accepted: 06/25/2024] [Indexed: 08/15/2024] Open
Abstract
Objective Prior research has not assessed the value of remote patient monitoring (RPM) systems for patients undergoing anticoagulation therapy after cardiac surgery. This study aims to assess whether the clinical follow-up through RPM yields comparable outcomes with the standard protocol. Methods A crossover trial assigned participants to SOC-RPM or RPM-SOC, starting with the standard of care (SOC) for the first 6 months after surgery and using RPM for the following 6 months, or vice-versa, respectively. During RPM, patients used the Coaguchek© to accurately measure International Normalized Ratio values and a mobile text-based chatbot to report PROs and adjust the therapeutic dosage. The study assessed patients' and clinicians' experience with RPM and compared direct costs. Results Twenty-seven patients participated. The median time in therapeutic range (TTR) levels during RPM were 72.2% and 50.6% for the SOC-RPM and RPM-SOC arms, respectively, and during SOC, they were 49.4% and 58.4% for SOC-RPM and RPM-SOC arms, respectively. Patients and the clinical team reported high trust and satisfaction with the proposed digital service. Statistically significant differences were only found in the cost of RPM in the RPM-SOC, which was higher than SOC in the SOC-RPM arm. Conclusions Portable coagulometers and chatbots can enhance the remote management of patients undergoing anticoagulation therapy, improving patient experience. This presents a promising alternative to the current standard procedure. The results of this study seem to suggest that RPM may have a higher value when initiated after a SOC period rather than starting RPM immediately after surgery.Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT06423521.
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Affiliation(s)
- Federico Guede-Fernández
- Value for Health CoLAB, Lisboa, Portugal
- LIBPhys (Laboratory for Instrumentation, Biomedical Engineering and Radiation Physics), NOVA School of Science and Technology, NOVA University of Lisbon, Caparica, Portugal
| | - Tiago Silva Pinto
- Área de Coração, Vasos e Tórax - Cirurgia Cardíaca, Hospital de Santa Marta, Unidade Local de Saúde São José, Lisboa, Portugal
- Centro Clínico Académico de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Helena Semedo
- Área de Coração, Vasos e Tórax - Cirurgia Cardíaca, Hospital de Santa Marta, Unidade Local de Saúde São José, Lisboa, Portugal
- Centro Clínico Académico de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Clara Vital
- Área de Coração, Vasos e Tórax - Cirurgia Cardíaca, Hospital de Santa Marta, Unidade Local de Saúde São José, Lisboa, Portugal
- Centro Clínico Académico de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Pedro Coelho
- Área de Coração, Vasos e Tórax - Cirurgia Cardíaca, Hospital de Santa Marta, Unidade Local de Saúde São José, Lisboa, Portugal
- Centro Clínico Académico de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal
- Comprehensive Health Research Center, NOVA Medical School, NOVA University of Lisbon, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Maria Eduarda Oliosi
- Value for Health CoLAB, Lisboa, Portugal
- LIBPhys (Laboratory for Instrumentation, Biomedical Engineering and Radiation Physics), NOVA School of Science and Technology, NOVA University of Lisbon, Caparica, Portugal
| | - Salomé Azevedo
- Value for Health CoLAB, Lisboa, Portugal
- CEG-IST, Instituto Superior Técnico, University of Lisbon, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Pedro Dias
- Value for Health CoLAB, Lisboa, Portugal
- Comprehensive Health Research Center, NOVA Medical School, NOVA University of Lisbon, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Ana Londral
- Value for Health CoLAB, Lisboa, Portugal
- Comprehensive Health Research Center, NOVA Medical School, NOVA University of Lisbon, Lisboa, Portugal
- REAL Translation and Innovation Towards Global Health, NOVA School of Science and Technology, NOVA University of Lisbon, Caparica, Portugal
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Schwartz GL, Leifheit KM, Arcaya MC, Keene D. Eviction as a community health exposure. Soc Sci Med 2024; 340:116496. [PMID: 38091853 PMCID: PMC11249083 DOI: 10.1016/j.socscimed.2023.116496] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2023] [Revised: 11/30/2023] [Accepted: 12/03/2023] [Indexed: 01/23/2024]
Abstract
Evidence suggests that being evicted harms health. Largely ignored in the existing literature is the possibility that evictions exert community-level health effects, affecting evicted individuals' social networks and shaping broader community conditions. In this narrative review, we summarize evidence and lay out a theoretical model for eviction as a community health exposure, mediated through four paths: 1) shifting ecologies of infectious disease and health behaviors, 2) disruption of neighborhood social cohesion, 3) strain on social networks, and 4) increasing salience of eviction risk. We describe methods for parsing eviction's individual and contextual effects and discuss implications for causal inference. We conclude by addressing eviction's potentially multilevel consequences for policy advocacy and cost-benefit analyses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriel L Schwartz
- Philip R. Lee Institute for Health Policy Studies, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, USA; Urban Health Collaborative & Department of Health Management and Policy, Drexel University Dornsife School of Public Health, Philadelphia, PA, USA.
| | - Kathryn M Leifheit
- Department of Pediatrics, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Mariana C Arcaya
- Department of Urban Studies & Planning, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Danya Keene
- Department of Social & Behavioral Sciences, Yale School of Public Health, New Haven, CT, USA
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PRICE D, DI GESSA G. Mental health and self-rated health of older carers during the COVID-19 pandemic: evidence from England. Aging Ment Health 2024; 28:103-111. [PMID: 37482075 PMCID: PMC10803633 DOI: 10.1080/13607863.2023.2236569] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2022] [Accepted: 05/11/2023] [Indexed: 07/25/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Older carers play a vital role supporting population health and protecting health and social care systems, yet there has been little research on understanding the effect of the pandemic on this group. In this paper, we investigate caring as a factor contributing to mental and self-rated health. METHODS We investigate cross-sectional and longitudinal associations between provision of family care and mental health and wellbeing using longitudinal data from 5,149 members of the English Longitudinal Study of Ageing who responded to Wave 9 (2018/2019) and two COVID-19 sub-studies (June/July 2020; November/December 2020). We use logistic or linear regression models depending on outcome measures, controlling for pre-pandemic socioeconomic, demographic, and health-related variables. RESULTS Before the pandemic, 21% of respondents cared for family or friends. Older people caring for someone inside the household mostly continued to provide care during the pandemic, with more than a quarter reporting an increase in the amount of care provided. Co-resident carers were disproportionately female, older, in the lowest wealth quintile, and more likely to report disability and chronic conditions. Both cross-sectional and longitudinal analyses suggest that, compared to those caring for people living outside the household, co-resident carers were significantly more likely to report poorer mental health and self-rated health. CONCLUSION The health of older carers worsened disproportionately in the first year of the pandemic, a period also characterised by disruptions to support and closure of respite services. Support for carers' mental and physical health requires greater policy attention, especially in pandemic conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Debora PRICE
- Department of Sociology, School of Social Sciences, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Giorgio DI GESSA
- Institute of Epidemiology & Health Care, Department of Epidemiology & Public Health, University College London, London, UK
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Cheng M, Yang H, Yu Q. Impact of informal caregiving on caregivers' subjective well-being in China: a longitudinal study. Arch Public Health 2023; 81:209. [PMID: 38057939 DOI: 10.1186/s13690-023-01220-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2023] [Accepted: 11/16/2023] [Indexed: 12/08/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND While informal caregiving is crucial for improving and maintaining health of the elderly, there is limited evidence of its potential effect on caregivers' wellbeing. Understanding this effect is important for policy makers to design effective long-term care policies. This longitudinal study aims to investigate the impact of informal caregiving on caregivers' subjective wellbeing in China. METHODS Three waves (2016, 2018, 2020) of data from the China Family Panel Studies (CFPS) are constructed for empirical analysis. Ordered logit model is first used to estimate the effect. Fixed effects ordered logit model and mixed effects ordered logit model are further employed to control for the possible bias from unobserved individual heterogeneity. RESULTS Informal caregiving significantly reduces caregivers' subjective wellbeing and the negative effect is stronger for high-frequency caregivers. Subgroup analysis reveals that informal caregiving imposed greater negative impacts on women, those living in rural areas, being married, working, and living separately from parents. Further analysis of mechanism indicates that decrease in wage income, leisure and sleep time were channels through which informal caregiving affects caregivers' well-being. CONCLUSION When policy makers formulate sustainable long-term care policies and home support services, interventions to improve caregivers' stress-coping skills and ensure their engagement in leisure and social activities could be adopted to mitigate the negative effects on caregivers' subjective well-being.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mingmei Cheng
- School of Public Finance and Taxation, Zhongnan University of Economics and Law, Wuhan, China
| | - Hualei Yang
- School of Public Administration, Zhongnan University of Economics and Law, Wuhan, China.
| | - Qian Yu
- School of Public Administration, Zhongnan University of Economics and Law, Wuhan, China
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Cebrino J, Portero de la Cruz S. Psychological impact of COVID-19 and determinants among Spanish university students. Front Public Health 2023; 11:1252849. [PMID: 37920580 PMCID: PMC10619672 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1252849] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2023] [Accepted: 10/02/2023] [Indexed: 11/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Background University students are a vulnerable population and faced a significant psychological impact from the COVID-19 pandemic. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the level of fear of COVID-19 among university students and to evaluate the possible relationship between fear of COVID-19 and socio-demographic, health-related determinants, variables related to the COVID-19 and variables related to the psychological impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods We conducted a cross-sectional study between December 2020 and December 2021 on a sample of 950 university students from two universities in southern Spain. Participants completed a form that collected socio-demographic, health-related and COVID-related variables, a validated questionnaire related to the psychological impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and the fear of COVID Scale (FCV-19S). Descriptive, inferential, and multivariable linear regression analyzes were conducted. Results The mean FCV-19S score was 14.86 ± 5.16 points. The factors identified as predictors of FCV-19S were being female (p < 0.001), holding religious beliefs (p = 0.04), living in towns with over 10,000 inhabitants (p < 0.01), living with someone vulnerable to COVID-19 (p = 0.02), watching TV to keep informed about COVID-19 (p < 0.01), believing in a low probability of surviving if infected with COVID-19 (p < 0.001), having a higher level of death anxiety (p < 0.001) and suffering from insomnia (p < 0.001). Conclusion An average fear of COVID-19 score of 14.86 ± 5.16 points has been found among university students in Spain. These findings can aid in identifying specific factors contributing to fear of COVID-19 and in developing coping strategies to alleviate the stress of the pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jesús Cebrino
- Department of Preventive Medicine and Public Health, University of Seville, Seville, Spain
| | - Silvia Portero de la Cruz
- Department of Nursing, Pharmacology and Physiotherapy, University of Córdoba, Córdoba, Spain
- Research Group GE10 Clinical and Epidemiological Research in Primary Care, Instituto Maimónides de Investigación Biomédica de Córdoba (IMIBIC), Hospital Universitario Reina Sofía, Córdoba, Spain
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Urwin S, Lau YS, Grande G, Sutton M. Informal caregiving and the allocation of time: implications for opportunity costs and measurement. Soc Sci Med 2023; 334:116164. [PMID: 37603963 DOI: 10.1016/j.socscimed.2023.116164] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2023] [Revised: 06/19/2023] [Accepted: 08/07/2023] [Indexed: 08/23/2023]
Abstract
Informal care requires a considerable time investment from providers that inherently involves trade-offs against various uses of time. We examine what other uses of time are forgone when individuals provide informal care. We further consider how caregiving is linked to a range of rarely explored time use characteristics relating to multitasking, the fragmentation and the timing of activities. We use data from 5670 adults across 11003 diary days from the 2014/15 UK Time Use Survey. Using a 'doubly robust' approach of entropy balancing and regression adjustment, we find carers spend an additional 49.0 min on non-market work, 2.9 min on personal care, 5.8 min on leisure and 2.9 min on miscellaneous activities on weekdays. They spend 46.1 min less on market work and 14.4 min less on sleep. Carers report more time stress, more multitasking, and more fragmented time. We estimate with attribution factors that 16% and 11% of reported household task activity is due to caregiving on weekday and weekend days, respectively. These findings provide evidence on additional opportunity costs faced by carers and possible channels through which carer labour market and health outcomes are realised. The attribution factors we calculate can be applied to total reported caregiving time to avoid overestimation when this is incorporated into economic evaluations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sean Urwin
- Health Organisation, Policy and Economics Group, School of Health Sciences, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK.
| | - Yiu-Shing Lau
- Health Organisation, Policy and Economics Group, School of Health Sciences, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Gunn Grande
- Division of Nursing, Midwifery and Social Work, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Matthew Sutton
- Health Organisation, Policy and Economics Group, School of Health Sciences, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK; Centre for Health Economics, Monash University, Australia
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Shahbaz R, Williams A, Sethi B, Wahoush O. Commonalities and Differences in the Experiences of Visible Minority Transnational Carer-Employees: A Qualitative Study. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:6800. [PMID: 37754659 PMCID: PMC10531478 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20186800] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2023] [Revised: 09/10/2023] [Accepted: 09/19/2023] [Indexed: 09/28/2023]
Abstract
This qualitative study explored the commonalities and differences among the experiences of visible minority Transnational Carer-Employees (TCEs) before and after COVID-19. TCEs are immigrants who live and work in the country of settlement while providing caregiving across international borders. Purposive and snowball sampling resulted in the participation of 29 TCEs of Pakistani, Syrian, African, and South American origin living in London, Ontario. Thematic analysis of the dataset using the ATLAS.ti software, Version 23.2.1., generated three themes: (1) feelings associated with transnational care; (2) employment experiences of TCEs; and (3) coping strategies for well-being. The results of the secondary analysis conducted herein suggested that there are more similarities than differences across the four cohorts. Many participants felt a sense of satisfaction at being able to fulfill their care obligations; however, a different outlook was observed among some Syrian and African origin respondents, who disclosed that managing care and work is overwhelming. Most TCEs also reported facing limited job options because of language barriers. While various interviewees experienced a lack of paid work and reduced income after COVID-19, a distinct perspective was noted from African descent TCEs as they expressed facing increased work demands after the pandemic. Participants additionally revealed four common coping strategies such as keeping busy, praying, family support, and staying active. Study implications include the promotion of Carer-Friendly Workplace Policies (CFWPs) that can facilitate the welfare of unpaid caregivers. This research is important as it may inform policymakers to create opportunities that may not only foster economic stability of TCEs and the Canadian economy, but also contribute towards a more equitable society.
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Affiliation(s)
- Reemal Shahbaz
- Faculty of Health Sciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON L8S 4L8, Canada
| | - Allison Williams
- Faculty of Sciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON L8S 4L8, Canada;
| | - Bharati Sethi
- Department of Political Studies, Trent University, Peterborough, ON K9L 0G2, Canada;
| | - Olive Wahoush
- School of Nursing, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON L8S 4L8, Canada;
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Pozet A, Darnis S, Bonnet M, Meurisse A, Dabakuyo-Yonli TS, Lejeune C, Fagnoni P, Gaimard M, Manckoundia P, Quibel C, Marchand M, Anota A, Nerich V. Quality of Life and Needs in Caregivers: Results From the Prospective Multicentric Open-Label Randomized Study of Informal Caregivers of Elderly Patients. Int J Public Health 2023; 68:1605459. [PMID: 37711159 PMCID: PMC10498993 DOI: 10.3389/ijph.2023.1605459] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2022] [Accepted: 06/21/2023] [Indexed: 09/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Objectives: To assess health-related quality of life (QoL) in caregivers of elderly patients with chronic disabilities receiving, or not receiving, social worker support. Methods: This multicenter open-label randomized study assigned caregivers to receive an information booklet, exclusively, or with social worker support. Caregivers completed Short Form-36 (SF-36) and Hospital Anxiety Depression Scale quarterly, and Zarit Burden Interview each semester, for 24 months. We reported caregiver QoL mean changes at 12 and 24 months (M12, M24). Longitudinal QoL analysis up to M24 used mixed models for repeated measures (MMRM). Results: Among the 179 caregivers randomized from 2015 to 2019, the SF-36 physical and mental component summary showed no significant changes at M12 and M24, in terms of neither anxiety nor burden. However, depression significantly increased (M12: 1.4 ± 4.0; M24: 1.7 ± 4.1) with significant adjusted mean increase using MMRM at M24: 3.4 [0.6-2.5] in the control group, exclusively. Conclusion: These findings call for better recognition of the social support to prevent caregiver QoL deterioration and alleviate their depression early in the course of the disease. Clinical Trial Registration: ClinicalTrials.gov, identifier NCT02626377.
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Affiliation(s)
- Astrid Pozet
- Methodological and Quality of Life Unit in Oncology, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Besançon, Besançon, France
- UMR1098, Interactions Hôte-Greffon-Tumeur/Ingénierie Cellulaire et Génique, INSERM, Université de Bourgogne-Franche-Comté, Etablissement Français du Sang Bourgogne-Franche-Comté, Besançon, France
| | - Sophie Darnis
- Department of Clinical Research and Innovation, Centre Léon Bérard, Lyon, France
| | - Magalie Bonnet
- Department of Psychology, EA 3188, UFR Sciences du Langage de l'Homme et de la Société, Université de Bourgogne-Franche-Comté, Besançon, France
| | - Aurélia Meurisse
- Methodological and Quality of Life Unit in Oncology, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Besançon, Besançon, France
- UMR1098, Interactions Hôte-Greffon-Tumeur/Ingénierie Cellulaire et Génique, INSERM, Université de Bourgogne-Franche-Comté, Etablissement Français du Sang Bourgogne-Franche-Comté, Besançon, France
| | - Tienhan Sandrine Dabakuyo-Yonli
- Epidemiology and Quality of Life Research Unit, INSERM U1231, Georges François Leclerc Centre - UNICANCER, Dijon, France
- The French National Platform Quality of Life and Cancer, Dijon, France
| | - Catherine Lejeune
- INSERM, CIC1432, Clinical Epidemiology Unit, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Dijon, Dijon, France
| | - Philippe Fagnoni
- Department of Pharmacy, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Dijon, Dijon, France
- INSERM U866, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Dijon, Dijon, France
| | - Maryse Gaimard
- Laboratoire Interdisciplinaire de Recherche Sociétés, Sensibilités, Soin (LIR3S), UMR 7366, Université de Bourgogne-Franche-Comté, Dijon, France
| | - Patrick Manckoundia
- Department of Gerontology, Hôpital de Champmaillot, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Dijon, Dijon, France
| | - Clémence Quibel
- Pôle de Gérontologie et d'Innovation (PGI) de Bourgogne-Franche-Comté, Besançon, France
| | - Mélanie Marchand
- Methodological and Quality of Life Unit in Oncology, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Besançon, Besançon, France
| | - Amélie Anota
- Department of Clinical Research and Innovation, Centre Léon Bérard, Lyon, France
- The French National Platform Quality of Life and Cancer, Dijon, France
- Department of Human and Social Sciences, Centre Léon Bérard, Lyon, France
| | - Virginie Nerich
- UMR1098, Interactions Hôte-Greffon-Tumeur/Ingénierie Cellulaire et Génique, INSERM, Université de Bourgogne-Franche-Comté, Etablissement Français du Sang Bourgogne-Franche-Comté, Besançon, France
- Department of Pharmacy, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Besançon, Besançon, France
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Cruz SA, Soeiro J, Canha S, Perrotta V. The concept of informal care: ambiguities and controversies on its scientific and political uses. FRONTIERS IN SOCIOLOGY 2023; 8:1195790. [PMID: 37534330 PMCID: PMC10391834 DOI: 10.3389/fsoc.2023.1195790] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2023] [Accepted: 06/29/2023] [Indexed: 08/04/2023]
Abstract
Starting from an analysis of the scientific and political uses of the concept of informal care, this paper raises questions and launches the debate on the causes and effects of its uses. Recognizing the diversity and the contradictions found across the use of the term, it explains how its predominant use in Europe can be problematic. First, although it is widely recognized that care is provided primarily by women, this gender dimension is not emphasized in a concept that obscures the sexual division. Second, it does not render explicit that informal care is work, despite being unpaid. Third, the allusion to informality is likely to generate confusion with informal employment of care workers. Finally, studies often focus exclusively on care provided by family members, without distinguishing the spaces in which the work takes place and the social relationships it involves, namely the family or community. In Europe, where documents from (non)governmental organizations focus mainly on long-term care related to demographic aging, it is the care crisis of formal care provision systems, faced with financial fragility, reduction in funds and insufficient supply to meet the demand, that brings informal care to the political and scientific agendas. This paper argues that it is necessary to define conceptual boundaries that allow international studies on the dimension and value of this care work to be compared. It also advocates the importance of making visible that this is work, unpaid and female-dominated, since this view supports action guidelines more focused on social transformation and empowerment.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - José Soeiro
- Faculty of Arts, Institute of Sociology, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Sara Canha
- Centre for Research in Anthropology (CRIA), University Institute of Lisbon (ISCTE), Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Valentina Perrotta
- Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Republic of Uruguay, Montevideo, Uruguay
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Chan CMH, Siau CS, Wong JE, Yahya N, Azmi NA, Chu SY, Ahmad M, Chong ASS, Wee LH, Tan JP. Characterizing Employees with Primary and Secondary Caregiving Responsibilities: Informal Care Provision in Malaysia. Healthcare (Basel) 2023; 11:2033. [PMID: 37510474 PMCID: PMC10379380 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare11142033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2023] [Revised: 06/15/2023] [Accepted: 07/12/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
There is a need to determine the extent to which Malaysian employees reconcile both paid employment and informal care provision. We examined data from the Malaysia's Healthiest Workplace via AIA Vitality Online Survey 2019 (N = 17,286). A multivariate multinomial regression was conducted to examine characteristics for the following groups: primary caregiver of a child or disabled child, primary caregiver of a disabled adult or elderly individual, primary caregiver for both children and elderly, as well as secondary caregivers. Respondent mean age ± SD was 34.76 ± 9.31, with 49.6% (n = 8573), identifying as either a primary or secondary caregiver to at least one child under 18 years, an elderly individual, or both. Males (n = 6957; 40.2%) had higher odds of being primary caregivers to children (OR 2.06; 95% CI 1.85-2.30), elderly (OR 1.24; 95% CI 1.09-1.41) and both children and elderly (OR 1.87; 95% CI 1.57-2.22). However, males were less likely to be secondary caregivers than females (OR 0.61; 95% CI 0.53-0.71). Our results highlight the differences in characteristics of employees engaged in informal care provision, and to a lesser degree, the extent to which mid-life individual employees are sandwiched into caring for children and/or the elderly.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caryn Mei Hsien Chan
- Centre for Community Health Studies, Faculty of Health Sciences, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur 50300, Malaysia
| | - Ching Sin Siau
- Centre for Community Health Studies, Faculty of Health Sciences, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur 50300, Malaysia
| | - Jyh Eiin Wong
- Centre for Community Health Studies, Faculty of Health Sciences, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur 50300, Malaysia
| | - Noorazrul Yahya
- Center for Diagnostic, Therapeutic and Investigative Studies, Faculty of Health Sciences, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur 50300, Malaysia
| | - Nor Aniza Azmi
- Center for Diagnostic, Therapeutic and Investigative Studies, Faculty of Health Sciences, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur 50300, Malaysia
| | - Shin Ying Chu
- Centre for Healthy Ageing and Wellness, Faculty of Health Sciences, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur 50300, Malaysia
| | - Mahadir Ahmad
- Centre for Community Health Studies, Faculty of Health Sciences, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur 50300, Malaysia
| | - Agnes Shu Sze Chong
- Centre for Community Health Studies, Faculty of Health Sciences, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur 50300, Malaysia
| | - Lei Hum Wee
- Centre for Community Health Studies, Faculty of Health Sciences, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur 50300, Malaysia
- School of Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, Taylor's University, Lakeside Campus, No. 1, Jalan Taylor's, Subang Jaya 47500, Malaysia
- Medical Advancement for Better Quality of Life Impact Lab, Taylor's University, 1 Jalan Taylors,Subang Jaya 47500, Malaysia
| | - Jo Pei Tan
- Department of Social Care and Social Work, Faculty of Health and Education, Manchester Metropolitan University, Manchester M15 6BH, UK
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Coe NB, Goda GS, Van Houtven CH. Family spillovers and long-term care insurance. JOURNAL OF HEALTH ECONOMICS 2023; 90:102781. [PMID: 37315472 PMCID: PMC10533212 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhealeco.2023.102781] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2021] [Revised: 05/26/2023] [Accepted: 05/31/2023] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
We examine how long-term care insurance (LTCI) affects informal care use and expectations among the insured individuals and co-residence and labor market outcomes of their adult children. We address the endogeneity of LTCI coverage by instrumenting for LTCI with changes in state tax treatment of LTCI insurance policies. We do not find evidence of reductions in informal care use over a horizon of approximately eight years. However, we find that LTCI coverage reduces parents' perceptions of the willingness of their children to care for them in the future and that the behavior of adult children changes, with LTCI resulting in lower likelihoods of adult children co-residing and stronger labor market attachment. These findings provide empirical support for the presence of spillovers of LTCI on the economic behaviors of family members.
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Affiliation(s)
- Norma B Coe
- University of Pennsylvania, Medical Ethics and Health Policy, Perelman School of Medicine, 423 Guardian Drive, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA; NBER, 1050 Massachusetts Ave., Cambridge, MA 02138, USA
| | - Gopi Shah Goda
- NBER, 1050 Massachusetts Ave., Cambridge, MA 02138, USA; Stanford University, Stanford Institute for Economic Policy Research (SIEPR), 366 Galvez Street, Stanford, CA 94305-6015, USA
| | - Courtney Harold Van Houtven
- Durham VA Medical Center, Center of Innovation to Accelerate Discovery and Practice Transformation (ADAPT), 508 Fulton Street, Durham, NC 27705, USA; University School of Medicine, Department of Population Health Sciences and Duke-Margolis Center for Health Policy, 215 Morris St. 2nd Floor, The Imperial Building, Campus Box: 104023, Durham, NC 27701, USA.
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49
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Labbas E, Stanfors M. Does Caring for Parents Take Its Toll? Gender Differences in Caregiving Intensity, Coresidence, and Psychological Well-Being Across Europe. EUROPEAN JOURNAL OF POPULATION = REVUE EUROPEENNE DE DEMOGRAPHIE 2023; 39:18. [PMID: 37378787 PMCID: PMC10307765 DOI: 10.1007/s10680-023-09666-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2022] [Accepted: 04/27/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023]
Abstract
Given population ageing and the emphasis on in-home care, more working-age adults are facing the demands of providing unpaid care to the elderly with potential implications for their own well-being. Such effects likely vary across Europe because care is differently organized with a differing emphasis on public support, dependence on family, and orientation toward gender equality. We studied the relationship between unpaid caregiving for elderly parents and the psychological well-being of older working-age (50-64) men and women by analysing data from the Survey of Health, Retirement, and Ageing in Europe (SHARE), covering 18 countries between 2004 and 2020 (N = 24,338), using ordinary least squares (OLS). We examined risk of depression by caregiving intensity and tested whether coresidence mediated outcomes. Men and women providing care to parents experience important psychological well-being losses across Europe, especially when caregiving is intensive. A heavier caregiving burden associated with coresidence explains a regime gradient in depression, not least for women in Southern Europe. Results highlight the spillover costs of unpaid caregiving across Europe and the need to address caregiver psychological well-being, especially in contexts where state support for elder care is low and coresidence is common.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisa Labbas
- Centre for Economic Demography, Lund University, PO Box 7080, 220 07, Lund, Sweden
| | - Maria Stanfors
- Centre for Economic Demography, Lund University, PO Box 7080, 220 07, Lund, Sweden.
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50
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Ruoss M, Brach M, Pacheco Barzallo D. Labor market costs for long-term family caregivers: the situation of caregivers of persons with spinal cord injury in Switzerland. BMC Health Serv Res 2023; 23:676. [PMID: 37349784 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-023-09565-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2022] [Accepted: 05/16/2023] [Indexed: 06/24/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Family members are key in the provision of care to persons facing disability. To undertake the role as caregivers, they face many costs, being the setback in the labor market one of the most relevant. METHODS We analyze comprehensive data from long-term family caregivers of persons with spinal cord injury (SCI) in Switzerland. Using information about their working situation before and after becoming caregivers, we estimated the reduction in working hours and the associated income loss. RESULTS On average, family caregivers reduced their working hours by about 23% (8.4 h per week), which has a monetary value of CHF 970 per month (EUR 845). Women, older caregivers, and less educated caregivers have a much higher opportunity cost in the labor market: CHF 995 (EUR 867), CHF 1,070 (EUR 932), and CHF 1,137 (EUR 990) respectively. In contrast, family members who care for a person that works have a much lower impact on their working status, CHF 651 (EUR 567). Interestingly, the reduction in their working time is only a third of the extra work they face as caregivers. CONCLUSION Health and social systems rely on the unpaid work of family caregivers. To guarantee their long-term involvement, family caregivers need to be recognized for their work and potentially compensated. Without family caregivers, it is very unlikely societies can cope with the increasing need for care, as professional services are limited and expensive.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monica Ruoss
- Faculty of Health Sciences and Medicine, University of Lucerne, Frohburgstrasse 3, 6002, Lucerne, Switzerland
| | - Mirjam Brach
- Swiss Paraplegic Research, Guido A. Zäch Str. 4, 6207, Nottwil, Switzerland
| | - Diana Pacheco Barzallo
- Faculty of Health Sciences and Medicine, University of Lucerne, Frohburgstrasse 3, 6002, Lucerne, Switzerland.
- Swiss Paraplegic Research, Guido A. Zäch Str. 4, 6207, Nottwil, Switzerland.
- Center for Rehabilitation in Global Health Systems, WHO Collaborating Center, Lucerne, Switzerland.
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