An exploratory qualitative analysis of the emotional impact of breast cancer and caregiving among older women.
Using in-depth qualitative interviews, this exploratory analysis evaluated the emotional impact of breast cancer on seven older women caring for others at the time of their breast cancer diagnosis. Stress--not depression as hypothesized--was identified as a primary issue for the women in their struggle to balance caregiving responsibilities and health needs. Modified by the caregiver-care recipient relationship and the type and amount of care provided, participants' experience with stress was influenced by a host ofphysical emotional, economic, and environmental factors. Life course pattern similarities represented another compelling emergent theme in the study. Participants shared similar characteristics and experiences during their lives, leading them through common pathways to the dual status of caregiver and breast cancer patient. Findings from this preliminary analysis support the need for more extensive research in this area as well as heightened awareness among social workers and care managers of the unique stressors experienced by older women breast cancer patients caring for others.
Parrish
Monique M
MM
LifeCourse Care, Orinda, CA 94563, USA. mparrish@lifecoursecare.com
Adams
Sara
S
D000223:Adaptation, Psychological; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D001943:Breast Neoplasms / Q000523:psychology*; D017028:Caregivers / Q000523:psychology*; D005069:Evaluation Studies as Topic; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007407:Interviews as Topic; D008875:Middle Aged; D013315:Stress, Psychological; D014481:United States