| Learning Objective #1: Review the developmental changes in caregiving and identify ways to promote healthy behaviors and decrease stress | |||
| Learning Objective #2: Guide nurses through the application of the nursing process for individuals and families who are at risk in caregiving |
Introduction: Research findings have demonstrated that caregiving demands can influence the quality of one’s life and loss of independence. Caregivers may be at risk for quality health services because of financial cost and lack of available resources. Many of the problems and illnesses experienced by caregivers have the potential to be prevented with supportive interaction.
Purpose: The purpose of this research was to describe the health behaviors and social support needs of caregivers and identify the coping strategies that may influence healthy outcomes and competency. The specific objectives are to: (1) identify healthy behaviors; (2) assess social support needs associated with caregiver demands; and (3) describe the coping strategies associated with healthy protective behaviors.
Significance: Elderly caregivers are vulnerable and at potential risk for quality health services. According to Healthy People 2010, individuals of all ages need support to increase life expectancy and improve the quality of life. Educational and community-based programs need to support patient education, offer choices, and support more effective communication with health care providers.
Methods: Interview and questionnaire data were obtained with 32 families that were involved in caregiving for a length of time from one month to thirteen years. Questions focused on assessment tools that included: demographic profile, caregiver inventories, and a wellness prevention questionnaire derived from recommendations of Healthy People 2000 and Healthy People 2010.
Results: Analyses include descriptive data, qualitative, and quantitative statistics. The caregivers’ strategies were categorized according to primary, secondary, and tertiary levels. In addition, individual and group responses were analyzed for common themes and exemplars.
Implications: Families need to learn how to become more resilient in their modes of communicating with health care providers. Nurses need to be reality based and offer support to better bridge the gaps of care.
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