The onset of dementia caregiving and its longitudinal implications.
This study examined patterns of entry into the caregiving role and how onset influences outcomes pertinent to the caregiving process. Using 3-year longitudinal data, the present analysis classified dementia caregivers into 1 of 4 onset sequences: those whose entry into caregiving was defined by diagnosis, those who first recognized symptoms and then obtained a diagnosis, those caregivers who first recognized symptoms and then provided care, and those who provided care prior to diagnosis or recognition. Analyses revealed that respondents who experienced a less abrupt entry into caregiving were less likely to institutionalize their relatives and reported greater decreases in well-being. The findings point to the dynamic process that defines entry into caregiving and emphasize that how individuals assume caregiving roles have implications long after onset.
Gaugler
Joseph E
JE
Department of Behavioral Science, Program in Gerontology/Sanders-Brown Center on Aging, Lexington 40536-0086, USA. jgaugle@uky.edu
Zarit
Steven H
SH
Pearlin
Leonard I
LI
D000223:Adaptation, Psychological; D000368:Aged; D000544:Alzheimer Disease / Q000534:rehabilitation; D017028:Caregivers / Q000523:psychology*; D005260:Female; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D006801:Humans; D007326:Institutionalization; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D013315:Stress, Psychological / Q000523:psychology*; D013997:Time Factors