Experience of loneliness associated with being an informal caregiver: A qualitative investigation.
Vasileiou, K; Barnett, J; Barreto, M; et al.Vines, J; Atkinson, M; Lawson, S; Wilson, M
Date: 29 March 2017
Journal
Frontiers in Psychology
Publisher
Frontiers Media
Publisher DOI
Abstract
Although providing care to a family member or friend may provide psychological benefits, informal (i.e. unpaid) caregivers also
encounter difficulties which may negatively affect their quality of life as well as their mental and physical health. Loneliness is one
important challenge that caregivers face, with this psychological state ...
Although providing care to a family member or friend may provide psychological benefits, informal (i.e. unpaid) caregivers also
encounter difficulties which may negatively affect their quality of life as well as their mental and physical health. Loneliness is one
important challenge that caregivers face, with this psychological state being associated with morbidity and premature mortality.
Although previous research has identified loneliness as an issue associated with being an informal caregiver, there is a paucity of
evidence that attempts to understand this phenomenon in depth. This study aimed to examine informal caregivers' reflections on,
and accounts of, experiences of loneliness linked to their caregiving situation. A cross-sectional, qualitative study was designed.
Sixteen semi-structured interviews were conducted with 8 spousal caregivers, 4 daughters caring for a parent, 3 mothers caring
for a child (or children) and 1 woman looking after her partner. The cared-for persons were suffering from a range of mental and
physical health conditions (e.g. dementia, frailty due to old age, multiple sclerosis, depression, autism). Data were analyzed using
an inductive thematic analysis. Experiences of loneliness were described by reference to a context of shrunken personal space and
diminished social interaction caused by the restrictions imposed by the caregiving role. Loneliness was also articulated against a
background of relational deprivations and losses as well as sentiments of powerlessness, helplessness and a sense of sole
responsibility. Social encounters were also seen to generate loneliness when they were characterized by some form of distancing.
Though not all sources or circumstances of loneliness in caregivers are amenable to change, more opportunities for respite care
services, as well as a heightened sensibility and social appreciation of caregivers' valued contributions could help caregivers
manage some forms of loneliness.
Psychology - old structure
Collections of Former Colleges
Item views 0
Full item downloads 0