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Domaradzki J, Walkowiak D. "In God We Trust": An Exploratory Study of the Associations Between Religiosity and the Caregiving Experiences of Parents of Children with Rare Diseases in Poland. JOURNAL OF RELIGION AND HEALTH 2024:10.1007/s10943-024-02095-4. [PMID: 39103591 DOI: 10.1007/s10943-024-02095-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/23/2024] [Indexed: 08/07/2024]
Abstract
Most children with a rare disease are cared for by their family members but parenting such a child is extremely demanding due to the complexity and severity of symptoms, with serious physical, emotional, social, and financial consequences for caregivers. Although religion may serve as a positive coping strategy, little is known about its role in helping caregivers manage the stress related to the burden of caregiving in Poland. Therefore, we surveyed 925 Polish family caregivers of children with rare diseases to understand the association between caregivers' religiosity and their caring experiences. The findings suggest that parents' religiosity is associated with a more positive caregiving experience, perceived quality of life, and experienced caregiving burden. While religious caregivers reported experiencing less distressing emotions and stressed the encouraging impact of their child's disease on their life more often, non-religious caregivers experienced role captivity and role overload more frequently. Since religion may serve as a source of strength and a protecting factor against mental health problems and the burden of caregiving, healthcare professionals should be aware of the importance of religious and spiritual care, and caregivers' religiosity should be considered an integral part of a holistic approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jan Domaradzki
- Department of Social Sciences and Humanities, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Rokietnicka 7, St, 60-806, Poznań, Poland.
| | - Dariusz Walkowiak
- Department of Organization and Management in Health Care, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poznań, Poland
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Unson C, Njoku A, Bernard S, Agbalenyo M. Racial and Ethnic Disparities in Chronic Stress among Male Caregivers. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:6188. [PMID: 37372773 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20126188] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2023] [Revised: 06/13/2023] [Accepted: 06/14/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023]
Abstract
Whereas research on caregiving is well documented, less is known about gender inequalities in caregiver stress, coping mechanisms, and health outcomes, all of which may vary by race, ethnicity, and socioeconomic status. This scoping review investigated racial and ethnic disparities using the Stress Process Model among male caregivers. Several databases were searched including Academic Search Premier, Medline Complete, APA PsycInfo, CINHAL, Google, ProQuest, and Web of Science. Included were peer-reviewed articles in English, published from 1990 to 2022. A total of nine articles fulfilled inclusion criteria. Most of the articles indicated that compared to White male caregivers, African American male caregivers provided more hours of care, assisted with more activities of daily living (ADLs) and instrumental activities of daily living (IADLs), and experienced more financial stress. In terms of coping style, one study found African American male caregivers, compared to White male caregivers, held negative religious beliefs. Another study showed that they were at a higher risk for stroke than their White counterparts. The search revealed a dearth of studies on racial disparities in stress, coping, and health outcomes among male caregivers. Further research is needed on the experiences and perspectives of male minority caregivers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christine Unson
- Department of Public Health, College of Health and Human Services, Southern Connecticut State University, 493 Fitch Street, New Haven, CT 06515, USA
| | - Anuli Njoku
- Department of Public Health, College of Health and Human Services, Southern Connecticut State University, 493 Fitch Street, New Haven, CT 06515, USA
| | - Stanley Bernard
- Department of Public Health, College of Health and Human Services, Southern Connecticut State University, 493 Fitch Street, New Haven, CT 06515, USA
| | - Martin Agbalenyo
- Department of Public Health, College of Health and Human Services, Southern Connecticut State University, 493 Fitch Street, New Haven, CT 06515, USA
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Sfeir M, Zeitoun A, Hallit S, Obeid S. Presence of a psychiatric patient at home and work fatigue in family caregivers: The moderating effect of spirituality. Perspect Psychiatr Care 2022; 58:2664-2675. [PMID: 35578158 DOI: 10.1111/ppc.13107] [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: 01/14/2022] [Revised: 04/25/2022] [Accepted: 04/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To assess the association between the mental health of caregivers having a psychiatric patient at home and work fatigue, and if this association is moderated by spirituality. METHODS This case-control study enrolled 600 caregivers (July-September 2019). RESULTS Stress, anxiety, insomnia and the presence of a psychiatric patient at home were associated with higher levels of physical, mental, and emotional work fatigue. In the case of caregivers who have a psychiatric patient at home, those with low spirituality had more mental and emotional work fatigue. PRACTICAL IMPLICATIONS Healthcare professionals should enlighten caregivers more on the risks and the consequences of their job, assist them with information on what to expect, and teach them how to normalize feelings that they may face.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michel Sfeir
- Department of Psychology, University of Fribourg, Fribourg, Switzerland
| | - Abeer Zeitoun
- Department of Quality Assurance of Pharmaceutical Products, National Pharmacovigilance Program, Lebanese Ministry of Public Health, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Souheil Hallit
- School of Medicine and Medical Sciences, Holy Spirit University of Kaslik, Jounieh, Lebanon.,Department of Psychology, College of Humanities, Effat University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.,Department of Research, Psychiatric Hospital of the Cross, Jal Eddib, Lebanon
| | - Sahar Obeid
- Department of Social and Education Sciences, School of Arts and Sciences, Lebanese American University, Jbeil, Lebanon
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Rote SM, Moon HE, Kacmar AM, Moore S. Exploring Coping Strategies and Barriers in Dementia Care: A Mixed-Methods Study of African American Family Caregivers in Kentucky. J Appl Gerontol 2022; 41:1851-1859. [PMID: 35543172 DOI: 10.1177/07334648221093618] [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: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
This study explores coping strategies and barriers to dementia care experienced by African American dementia caregivers in Kentucky. Utilizing a convergent mixed-method design integrating focus group and survey data on African American dementia caregivers recruited through churches in Kentucky (N = 28), we elucidate three coping strategies: love-based coping, religion-based coping, and family support. Results from survey data supported these themes, with over 90% of participants reporting that they provide care to give back to family members and for religious reasons. However, over half of the caregivers' reported strain due to three barriers identified by focus group data: time constraints, low support, and the high cost of formal care. This exploratory study highlights the importance of intervention tactics for African American dementia caregivers that focus not only on individual and family support but also community-based outreach and support.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sunshine M Rote
- Kent School of Social Work, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY, USA
| | - Heehyul E Moon
- Kent School of Social Work, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY, USA
| | - Allison M Kacmar
- Kent School of Social Work, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY, USA
| | - Sharon Moore
- Kent School of Social Work, University of Louisville, Louisville, KY, USA
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Koumoutzis A, Mehri N. The Impact of Caregiving Intensity and Religiosity on Spousal Caregivers' Health and Mortality in the US (2004-2014). J Aging Health 2022; 34:640-652. [PMID: 35112885 DOI: 10.1177/08982643211052725] [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: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Despite adverse physical and mental health outcomes related to caregiving, family caregivers also experience lower mortality rates compared to noncaregivers. However, research has not yet examined the role of caregiving intensity and religiosity with health and mortality among spousal caregivers. METHODS Data include spousal caregivers (n=5,214 person-wave observations) and noncaregivers (n=50,311 person-wave observations) from the Health and Retirement Study (2004-2014 waves). Multinomial logistic regression was used to explore how caregiving intensity and religiosity were associated with health and mortality among spousal caregivers, compared health and mortality between caregivers and noncaregiving peers, and examined gender differences in these mechanisms. RESULTS Greater religious salience and attending religious services, although dependent on gender and caregiving intensity, are protective for caregivers' health and mortality. DISCUSSION Religiosity may buffer adverse effects of caregiving on health and mortality for spousal caregivers. Continuation of prior religiosity may enhance positive aspects of caregiving and decrease caregiver burden.
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Tan SB, Williams AF, Tan EK, Clark RB, Morris ME. Parkinson's Disease Caregiver Strain in Singapore. Front Neurol 2020; 11:455. [PMID: 32714260 PMCID: PMC7344200 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2020.00455] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2020] [Accepted: 04/28/2020] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Caregiver strain is recognized globally with Parkinson's disease (PD). Comparatively little is understood about caregiver burden and strain in Asia. Objective: To investigate caregiver strain for families living with PD in Singapore, in light of international data. Methods: Ninety-four caregivers were recruited via people living with idiopathic PD in Singapore. Caregiver strain was assessed using the Zarit Burden Interview (ZBI); health status was assessing using the Cumulative Illness Rating Scale for Geriatrics (CIRS-G). PD disability measures were the Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale (UPDRS) and modified Hoehn and Yahr (1967) Scale. Results: Primary caregivers of people living with PD in Singapore were mostly cohabiting spouses, partners or offspring. Around half employed foreign domestic helpers. Mean caregiving duration was 5.9 years with an average of eight hours per day spent in caregiving roles. Most care providers were comparatively healthy. Caregivers reported significant levels of strain which increased with greater level of disability (r = 0.36, n = 94, p < 0.001). Associations were significant between caregiver strain and scores on the UPDRS mentation, behavior, and mood subscales [r = 0.46, n = 94, p < 0.001, 95% CI (0.28, 0.60)]. High scores on the UPDRS activities of daily living subscale were associated with caregiver strain [r = 0.50, n = 94, p < 0.001, CI (0.33, 0.64)]. Conclusion: Most caregivers in this Singapore sample reported high levels of strain, despite comparatively good physical function. Caregiver strain in PD spans geopolitical and cultural boundaries and correlates with disease severity. These results support the need for better early recognition, education, and support for caregivers of people living with PD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siok-Bee Tan
- Nursing Division, Singapore General Hospital, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Allison F Williams
- School Health Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia.,School of Nursing and Midwifery, Faculty of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Eng-King Tan
- Department of Neurology, National Neuroscience Institute (Singapore General Hospital Campus), Singapore, Singapore
| | - Richard B Clark
- Victorian Rehabilitation Centre, Healthscope ARCH and La Trobe Centre for Sport and Exercise Medicine Research, La Trobe University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Meg E Morris
- Victorian Rehabilitation Centre, Healthscope ARCH and La Trobe Centre for Sport and Exercise Medicine Research, La Trobe University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
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Vlachantoni A, Feng Z, Wang N, Evandrou M. Social Participation and Health Outcomes Among Caregivers and Noncaregivers in Great Britain. J Appl Gerontol 2019; 39:1313-1322. [PMID: 31690156 DOI: 10.1177/0733464819885528] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
This study investigates the relationship between social participation and health outcomes between caregivers and noncaregivers in Great Britain. Previous studies indicate that the impact of informal caregiving on the carer's health is complex, and the intensity of care provision has an adverse impact on the caregivers' health, while social participation could have a protective role in this respect. Using qualitative and quantitative data from Wave 8 of the 1958 National Child Development Study, the analysis shows that social participation has a positive effect on the carers' mental health and subjective well-being. Individuals who did not engage in social participation reported lower levels of mental health and control, autonomy, self-realization and pleasure (CASP) scores than those engaged in social participation. The qualitative results showed the barriers to social participation of caregivers to be time, energy, and finance. We discuss ways in which the government could address such barriers to improve the level of social participation among caregivers.
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Epps F, Williams IC. The Importance of Religiosity to the Well-Being of African American Older Adults Living With Dementia. J Appl Gerontol 2018; 39:509-518. [PMID: 30584790 DOI: 10.1177/0733464818820773] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
This study was a post hoc analysis of a larger qualitative descriptive study exploring family involvement in health promotion activities for African Americans living with dementia where participants identified religious practices as meaningful health promotion activities. The purpose of this study was to explore ways in which religiosity may influence the well-being of older adults living with dementia. Semi-structured interviews were conducted among a sample of 22 family caregivers and 15 older adults living with dementia (N = 37). Three themes emerged: Engagement, Promotion of Faith and Spiritual Connectedness, and Maintenance of Religious Practices. It is imperative for family caregivers to understand the important contributions of religious activities and beliefs to the well-being of their family member. This information might be of use for faith communities, policy makers, and health care providers in the provision of optimal person-centered care and the promotion of quality of life for persons living with dementia.
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