(Special Issue) Models of Transformative Learning Among Family Caregivers of People with Dementia: Positive Experience Approaches
Author: Chia-Ming Yen (Medical Center of Aging Research, China Medical University Hospital)
Vol.&No.：Vol. 63, No.2
Date：June 2018
Pages：187-218
DOI：10.6209/JORIES.201806_63(2).0008
Abstract：
In contrast to the general assumptions that people with dementia are a physical, psychological, and financial burden, recent studies have demonstrated that family caregivers can benefit and experience personal growth when caring for a family member with dementia. This study investigates the transformation of family caregivers when caring for a family member with dementia. This study first examined the negative experiences of family caregivers of people with dementia and then explored the triggers that helped change their experiences from negative to positive during caregiving. In-depth interviews were conducted with 18 participants. The participants were recruited from two local care associations and one medical centre in central and southern Taiwan. Each interview was audio-recorded and data were transcribed verbatim. A thematic analysis was performed to analyze the themes and subthemes related to the triggers. The findings revealed that optimistic characteristics, mutuality, spirituality, and coping abilities and skills are important triggers for developing a positive caregiving experience model. This study is intended to help family caregivers, who may often feel pessimistic, to have positive daily caregiving experiences. Moreover, the study provides government long-term care policymakers, scholars, and healthcare professionals and practitioners with a more comprehensive understanding of the caregiving challenges and needs of family caregivers.
Keywords：family caregivers of people with dementia, positive caregiving experiences, transformative learning
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