Impact of Chronic Conditions on Older Couples' Relationships
Author Information
Author(s): Eagle Angelica, Polenick Courtney
Primary Institution: University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, United States
Hypothesis
How do multiple chronic conditions affect the relationships of older couples?
Conclusion
Older couples living with multiple chronic conditions experience significant changes in their relationship dynamics, particularly influenced by the presence of dementia.
Supporting Evidence
- Couples not living with dementia adapted their daily routines around functional limitations.
- Emotional and physical intimacy changed for couples living with multiple chronic conditions.
- Couples living with dementia spent increased time together.
Takeaway
When older couples both have health problems, it can change how they interact and support each other, especially if one has dementia.
Methodology
Qualitative study with semi-structured interviews and qualitative content analysis.
Participant Demographics
56 older couples, average age of wives 66.84 years and husbands 68.16 years, all with two or more chronic conditions.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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