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Camões-Costa V, Taylor B, Barton C, Chakraborty S, Hewitt A, Lin X, Brijnath B. Mental health outcomes of family carers after admission to aged care: A cross-sectional survey study. Australas J Ageing 2024. [PMID: 38597573 DOI: 10.1111/ajag.13314] [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: 03/27/2023] [Revised: 02/21/2024] [Accepted: 03/11/2024] [Indexed: 04/11/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This study investigated the predictors of poor mental health outcomes among family carers of residents after transitioning into residential aged care. METHODS Using a cross-sectional design, five groups of variables were evaluated as predictors: caregiver demographics; caregiving load; resident-related variables; loneliness and visiting frequency; and the impact of the COVID-19 context. A total of 309 primary family contacts of all residents of two residential aged care organisations in the state of Victoria (Australia) participated in the study (response rate 19%). The K-10 and the Burden Scale for Family Caregivers were used to measure the primary outcomes. We compared psychological distress and burden outcomes between carers whose relative was admitted within the last 12 months, or longer than 12 months ago. RESULTS Time since admission (<12 months or >12 months) did not affect the level of psychological distress (t (238) = -.08, p = .94) or subjective burden (t (245) = -.89, p = .38). Being a woman, a spouse, speaking a language other than English at home, being less satisfied with the support offered by the facility, not feeling supported in the decision to admit their relative, being lonely and providing higher levels of care preadmission were predictors of poor mental health outcomes. CONCLUSIONS Older women with low-English proficiency who were primary carers and are socially isolated, are more likely to experience poor mental health outcomes and need additional support. These findings may inform the development of screening tools and tailored interventions to support this population during and after the transition process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vera Camões-Costa
- Department of General Practice, School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Benjamin Taylor
- Department of General Practice, School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Chris Barton
- Department of General Practice, School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Samantha Chakraborty
- Department of General Practice, School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Alana Hewitt
- Department of Occupational Therapy, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Xiaoping Lin
- Department of Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Bianca Brijnath
- National Ageing Research Institute Ltd, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- School of Occupational Therapy, Social Work and Speech Pathology, Curtin University, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
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Larkey FA, Hughes M, Nancarrow S. The experience of entering residential aged care: The views of residents, family members and staff-an Appreciative Inquiry. Australas J Ageing 2024; 43:52-60. [PMID: 37828653 DOI: 10.1111/ajag.13236] [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: 02/15/2023] [Revised: 08/05/2023] [Accepted: 08/10/2023] [Indexed: 10/14/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To understand resident, family and staff perspectives of older people's transition to residential aged care and initiatives that support this transition. METHODS A qualitative Appreciative Inquiry was undertaken with residents, family members and staff in residential aged care. It included semistructured interviews (n = 40), three focus groups (n = 17) and an organisational summit (n = 72). Each stage sought to build on the previous one, deepening understanding of the issues experienced and identifying positive strategies for change. Data were analysed thematically using framework analysis. RESULTS The transition experience was characterised by grief and guilt felt by family members and the challenges they faced in participating in a decision to admit a relative to residential aged care. Residents found the transition challenging but stressed the need to adjust to the situation. Family members struggled with trusting others to provide appropriate care and both residents and relatives reported challenges in communicating with staff. Initiatives were recommended by the organisational summit to assist in the transition to residential aged care. These included developing a service navigator role, co-designing new systems and resources with residents and relatives, and ensuring more consistent staffing. CONCLUSIONS Improved communication strategies and resources are needed to support the resident's identity, build trust in the organisation and support transition to residential aged care. Staff should continue to value the contribution family members play in the life of the resident and the culture of the aged care community.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frances Anne Larkey
- Research and Innovation: Wesley Mission Queensland, Southern Cross University, Bilinga, Queensland, Australia
| | - Mark Hughes
- Faculty of Health, Southern Cross University, Bilinga, Queensland, Australia
| | - Susan Nancarrow
- Faculty of Health, Southern Cross University, Bilinga, Queensland, Australia
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Taranrød LB, Kirkevold Ø, Pedersen I, Eriksen S. The transition of care from farm-based daycare for people with dementia: The perspective of next of kin. Int J Qual Stud Health Well-being 2023; 18:2228047. [PMID: 38016039 PMCID: PMC10291912 DOI: 10.1080/17482631.2023.2228047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2022] [Accepted: 06/18/2023] [Indexed: 11/30/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE The aim of the present study was to explore the next of kin's experiences with the transition for people with dementia from a farm-based daycare (FDC) to another service in the municipality. METHODS The study has a qualitative, descriptive design. Eight semi-structured interviews with next of kin were conducted. The data were analysed in accordance with content analysis. RESULTS Through the analysis three main categories were developed: (1) Bearing the burden, (2) Being in transition, and (3) Feeling supported. The transition period was highly stressful for next of kin due to the exacerbation of their relatives' dementia symptoms. The next of kin focussed on optimizing the everyday lives of their relatives with dementia, even at the expense of their own well-being. Most participants experienced support from FDC, healthcare services and their informal network. CONCLUSIONS The study contributes important insights into the next of kin's experiences. Good quality service, close dialog, information, and support between the different part in the transition process, can be useful for the further development of services with good quality and to reduce the negative effects of care on next of kin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liv Bjerknes Taranrød
- Norwegian National Centre for Ageing and Health, Vestfold Hospital Trust, Tønsberg, Norway
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Øyvind Kirkevold
- Norwegian National Centre for Ageing and Health, Vestfold Hospital Trust, Tønsberg, Norway
- Centre for Age Related Functional Decline and Diseases (AFS) at Innlandet Hospital Trust, Hamar, Norway
- Department of Health Sciences in Gjøvik, Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU), Gjøvik, Norway
| | - Ingeborg Pedersen
- Department of Public Health Science, Ås, Norway, Norwegian University of Life Sciences, Ås, Norway
| | - Siren Eriksen
- Norwegian National Centre for Ageing and Health, Vestfold Hospital Trust, Tønsberg, Norway
- Department of Bachelor of Nursing, Lovisenberg Diaconal University College, Oslo, Norway
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Camões-Costa V, Loganathan J, Barton C, Chakraborty S, Hewitt A, Lin X, Brijnath B. Factors contributing to the mental health outcomes of carers during the transition of their family member to residential aged care: a systematic search and narrative review. BMC Geriatr 2022; 22:433. [PMID: 35581539 PMCID: PMC9115935 DOI: 10.1186/s12877-022-03105-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2021] [Accepted: 04/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The transition of an older family member into a residential aged care facility (RACF) is often challenging for both the person being admitted and their family carer. This review aimed to identify the protective and contributing factors to adverse mental health outcomes among family carers following the decision to move a family member to a RACF. METHOD A search of CINAHL, PubMed and PsycINFO was conducted for empirical papers published in English between 2004 and 2019, exploring the mental health or quality of life (QoL) of family carers of those recently admitted, or considering admission, to a RACF. Articles were reviewed by two authors for inclusion. RESULTS Twenty-three studies met the inclusion criteria. Pre-existing depressive symptoms and poor subjective health were related to adverse mental health outcomes following admission. Information from the facility, support to change roles, and factors related to carer's health and demographics, were associated with changes in the mental health outcomes of carers during the transition of their relative to a RACF. Key protective factors of carer's mental health outcomes following the transition of their relative to a RACF are flow and transparency of information between carer and the facility staff, and staff efforts to involve carers in providing emotional support to their relative, in monitoring care, and advocating for their quality of life. CONCLUSION There is evidence to suggest factors such lack of flow and transparency of information between carer and the facility staff may predispose carers to poor mental health and QoL following the transition of a relative to a RACF. Key protective factors of carer's mental health following admission are staff efforts to involve carers in providing emotional support to their relative, in monitoring care, and advocating for their quality of life. This review also indicates that the combination of factors that puts family carers more at risk of poor mental health and lower quality of life throughout the transition period. Policy and practice should follow recommendations that consider a combination of the above factors when addressing the needs of family carers before and after admission of an older person to RACF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vera Camões-Costa
- Department of General Practice, Monash University, Building 1, 270 Ferntree Gully Road, Notting Hill, VIC, 3168, Australia.
| | - Jayasree Loganathan
- Department of General Practice, Monash University, Building 1, 270 Ferntree Gully Road, Notting Hill, VIC, 3168, Australia
| | - Chris Barton
- Department of General Practice, Monash University, Building 1, 270 Ferntree Gully Road, Notting Hill, VIC, 3168, Australia
| | - Samantha Chakraborty
- Department of General Practice, Monash University, Building 1, 270 Ferntree Gully Road, Notting Hill, VIC, 3168, Australia
| | - Alana Hewitt
- Department of Occupational Therapy, Monash University, Frankston, Victoria, Australia
| | - Xiaoping Lin
- Department of Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Bianca Brijnath
- Department of General Practice, Monash University, Building 1, 270 Ferntree Gully Road, Notting Hill, VIC, 3168, Australia
- National Ageing Research Institute Ltd, Parkville, Australia
- School of Occupational Therapy, Social Work and Speech Pathology, Curtin University, Perth, Australia
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Brooks D, Beattie E, Fielding E, Wyles K, Edwards H. Long-term care placement: The transitional support needs and preferences of spousal dementia caregivers. DEMENTIA 2021; 21:794-809. [PMID: 34870490 DOI: 10.1177/14713012211056461] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES Many spousal caregivers experience stress, depression, loneliness, guilt and grief when placing a partner with dementia into long-term care. However, there is little research about their transitional support experiences, needs and preferences. This study aimed to gain a deeper understanding of these issues from spousal caregiver and long-term care facility staff perspectives, to inform subsequent support and intervention development. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS Semi-structured interviews and small group discussions were held separately with spousal caregivers (n = 9) and care facility staff (n = 11). Criterion and variation sampling aimed to ensure a range of experiences and perspectives. The 'Framework' approach was utilised for data analysis. Interpretation was with respect to underpinning models of stress-grief process in dementia caregiving. FINDINGS A range of informational, psychoeducational and psychosocial supports were identified to help spousal caregivers cope better with the stressors and losses experienced throughout the transition from home to long-term care. Improved education about disease progression, information relating to long-term care provision, peer support and dementia-specific grief counselling were deemed important. Opportunities for better support within care facilities were also identified. Support should be tailored to individual needs and preferences. DISCUSSION AND IMPLICATIONS The findings suggest a supportive care framework be developed, encompassing the trajectory from assessment for and admission into long-term care to end-of-life and post-bereavement support. Spousal caregivers should have their support needs assessed by trained health or social care professionals and be offered a range of support options as appropriate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deborah Brooks
- Dementia Centre for Research Collaboration, 1969Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Elizabeth Beattie
- Dementia Centre for Research Collaboration, 1969Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Elaine Fielding
- Dementia Centre for Research Collaboration, 1969Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Katy Wyles
- Dementia Centre for Research Collaboration, 1969Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Helen Edwards
- Faculty of Health, 1969Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
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Experiences in the Decision-Making Regarding the Place of Care of the Elderly: A Systematic Review. Behav Sci (Basel) 2021; 11:bs11020014. [PMID: 33494258 PMCID: PMC7921973 DOI: 10.3390/bs11020014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2020] [Revised: 01/14/2021] [Accepted: 01/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
The objective of this review was to understand how participants experience the decision-making process regarding the place of care for the elderly. Therefore, we conducted a systematic review of qualitative studies. The articles were included if they were original studies with qualitative/mixed methodology, written in English/Spanish, and that approached the decision-making process regarding the place of care for the elderly, already experienced by the participants. Forty-four articles were included, identifying experiences, both negative and positive. Negative experiences have been the most frequently reported experiences by all population groups; fear was the most relevant experience for the elderly, whereas concern was the most relevant for family members and professionals. This review has not only found a great variability of experiences, but also, it has deepened the differences between groups and the situations motivating/generating these experiences. This review highlights a wide range of experiences of those directly involved in the entire decision-making process on the place of care for the elderly. In future research it would be interesting to carry out qualitative primary studies conducted with professionals and other relevant people involved in this decision-making process, in order to know first-hand how they experience this process.
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Fetherstonhaugh D, Rayner JA, Solly K, McAuliffe L. 'You become their advocate': The experiences of family carers as advocates for older people with dementia living in residential aged care. J Clin Nurs 2021; 30:676-686. [PMID: 33295051 DOI: 10.1111/jocn.15589] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2020] [Revised: 11/19/2020] [Accepted: 11/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
AIMS The aim of this study was to identify features of well-performing residential aged care services (RACS) as experienced by family carers. BACKGROUND Family carers can have an integral role in residential aged care providing social support and are well-placed to engage with staff and monitor care. DESIGN A qualitative descriptive design was used. Semi-structured face-to-face and telephone interviews were conducted with family carers of current or past residents of Australian RACS between November 2018 and January 2019. Interview transcripts were analysed thematically. RESULTS Rather than reporting features of well-performing RACS, participants shared stories of sub-standard care, dysfunctional management and poor resident-staff-family interactions. An overarching theme emerged of 'having to be an advocate' for residents' needs, which covered four major categories: organisational accountability (including transparency and individualised care), good communication, connection and trust. Combined, these constitute what carers perceive are the necessary conditions for determining the features of a well-performing RACS. CONCLUSION Family carers need to feel confident and trust RACS staff when they hand over the role of carer for their relative with dementia. RELEVANCE TO CLINICAL PRACTICE This study provides insight into the needs and challenges of family carers when they relinquish the care of an older relative with dementia. Strategies to build confidence and trust between RACS and family carers are essential. Aged care nurses can play a pivotal role to support this through the development of open communication and relational connections with residents and their families.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deirdre Fetherstonhaugh
- Australian Centre for Evidence Based Aged Care, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Vic., Australia
| | - Jo-Anne Rayner
- Australian Centre for Evidence Based Aged Care, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Vic., Australia
| | - Kane Solly
- Australian Centre for Evidence Based Aged Care, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Vic., Australia
| | - Linda McAuliffe
- Australian Centre for Evidence Based Aged Care, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Vic., Australia
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Clemmensen TH, Lauridsen HH, Andersen-Ranberg K, Kristensen HK. 'I know his needs better than my own' - carers' support needs when caring for a person with dementia. Scand J Caring Sci 2020; 35:586-599. [PMID: 32410395 PMCID: PMC8246922 DOI: 10.1111/scs.12875] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2019] [Revised: 02/27/2020] [Accepted: 04/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Background Caring for a person with dementia predisposes informal carers (carers) to mental and physical disability. Carers tend to focus on the needs of the person with dementia and have difficulties expressing their own needs for support. No instrument has yet been developed to directly assess carers’ support needs. The aim of this study is to clarify the main categories of carers’ support needs to inform future development of an instrument to assess carers’ support needs. Methods A qualitative approach combining focus group interviews with carers and professionals and individual interviews were used. Results Carers’ support needs were categorised into four areas: (i) daily life when caring for a person with dementia, (ii) focus on themselves, (iii) maintain own well‐being, and (iv) communicate and interact with surroundings. Discussion Carers have support needs in common regardless of the relation to the person with dementia. Carers tend to focus on the needs of the person with dementia, thus not knowing their own needs. The four main categories clarified in this study may inform the foundation of developing an instrument to facilitate dialogue between carers and professionals with the purpose of assessing carers’ support needs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Trine Holt Clemmensen
- Health Sciences Research Centre, UCL University College, Odense, Denmark.,Institute of Sports Science and Clinical Biomechanics, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
| | - Henrik Hein Lauridsen
- Institute of Sports Science and Clinical Biomechanics, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
| | - Karen Andersen-Ranberg
- Department of Public Health, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark.,Department of Clinical Research, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
| | - Hanne Kaae Kristensen
- Health Sciences Research Centre, UCL University College, Odense, Denmark.,Department of Clinical Research, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
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Serrano-Gemes G, Rich-Ruiz M, Serrano-Del-Rosal R. Systematic review of qualitative studies on participants in the decision-making process about the location of care of the elderly. BMJ Open 2020; 10:e036551. [PMID: 32205378 PMCID: PMC7103830 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2019-036551] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To understand who are the participants in the decision-making process about the location of care of the elderly. DESIGN Systematic review of qualitative studies. DATA SOURCES The following databases were consulted: Web of Science, MEDLINE, Scopus, CINAHL, PsycINFO and SciELO (from the beginning until 29 November 2017). The bibliographical references in the studies that were finally included in the review were also searched. STUDY SELECTION The studies had to deal with the decision-making process (already experienced by the participants) on the location of care of the elderly (adults who are 65 or older), had to use a qualitative methodology and had to be written in English or Spanish. DATA EXTRACTION AND SYNTHESIS A data extraction tool was used. Data analysis was conducted through the constant comparative method from Glaser and Strauss' grounded theory. RESULTS 46 studies were included in this review. Most of them were carried out in the USA, and in 21 of them the study population focused exclusively on the elderly. This review has found that there are many participants, with different roles and degrees of involvement, who may act jointly, separately or sequentially. These participants may be: the elders, family members, professionals and other relevant. CONCLUSIONS The main result of this review has been the variability found on how this decision is made, even varying the way of acting/perceiving the situation of the involved persons on certain occasions, simply due to the influence of some of the other groups of participants studied. Besides, this review has focused its results on the main participant in this process, the elders and how their family members interact with them when it comes to making this decision. This has allowed relevant results to be obtained about roles and degrees of involvement. PROSPERO REGISTRATION NUMBER CRD42018084826.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gema Serrano-Gemes
- Instituto de Estudios Sociales Avanzados (IESA-CSIC), Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Cientificas, Córdoba, Spain
- Instituto Maimónides de Investigación Biomédica de Córdoba (IMIBIC), Universidad de Córdoba (UCO), Hospital Universitario Reina Sofía (HURS), Cordoba, Spain
| | - Manuel Rich-Ruiz
- Instituto Maimónides de Investigación Biomédica de Córdoba (IMIBIC), Universidad de Córdoba (UCO), Hospital Universitario Reina Sofía (HURS), Cordoba, Spain
- CIBER de Fragilidad y Envejecimiento Saludable (CIBERFES), Madrid, Spain
| | - Rafael Serrano-Del-Rosal
- Instituto de Estudios Sociales Avanzados (IESA-CSIC), Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Cientificas, Córdoba, Spain
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