The complexity of caregiving for community-living older adults with multiple chronic conditions: A qualitative study

Author:

Ploeg Jenny123ORCID,Garnett Anna4,Fraser Kimberly D56,Baird Lisa Garland7ORCID,Kaasalainen Sharon8ORCID,McAiney Carrie910ORCID,Markle-Reid Maureen1311ORCID,Dufour Sinéad12

Affiliation:

1. School of Nursing, McMaster University, Canada

2. Department of Health, Aging and Society, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada

3. Aging, Community and Health Research Unit, McMaster University, Canada

4. Arthur Labatt Family School of Nursing, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada

5. Faculty of Nursing, University of Alberta, Canada

6. Faculty of Health Disciplines, Athabasca University, Athabasca, Canada

7. Faculty of Nursing, University of Prince Edward Island, Charlottetown, Canada

8. School of Nursing, Faculty of Health Sciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada

9. Schlegel-UW Research Institute for Aging, Canada

10. School of Public Health and Health Systems, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ontario, Canada

11. Department of Health Research Methods, Evidence and Impact, Faculty of Health Sciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada

12. School of Rehabilitation Science, Faculty of Health Sciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada

Abstract

Background: Older adults with multiple chronic conditions (MCC) rely heavily on caregivers for assistance with care. However, we know little about their psychosocial experiences and their needs for support in managing MCC. The purpose of this study was to explore the experiences of caregivers of older adults living in the community with MCC. Methods: This qualitative study was a secondary analysis of previously collected data from caregivers in Ontario and Alberta, Canada. Participants included caregivers of older adults (65 years and older) with three or more chronic conditions. Data were collected through in-depth, semi-structured interviews. Interview transcripts were coded and analyzed using Thorne’s interpretive description approach. Results: Most of the 47 caregiver participants were female (76.6%), aged 65 years of age or older (61.7%), married (87.2%) and were spouses to the care recipient (68.1%). Caregivers’ experiences of caring for community-living older adults with MCC were complex and included: (a) dealing with the demands of caregiving; (b) prioritizing chronic conditions; (c) living with my own health limitations; (d) feeling socially isolated and constrained; (e) remaining committed to caring; and (f) reaping the rewards of caregiving. Conclusions: Healthcare providers can play key roles in supporting caregivers of older adults with MCC by providing education and support on managing MCC, actively engaging them in goal setting and care planning, and linking them to appropriate community health and social support services. Communities can create environments that support caregivers in areas such as social participation, social inclusion, and community support and health services.

Funder

Ontario Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care

Publisher

SAGE Publications

Subject

General Earth and Planetary Sciences,General Environmental Science

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