Ambivalence in Alzheimer’s Caregiving
Author Information
Author(s): Huo Meng, Gilligan Megan, Kim Kyungmin, Richards Nicole, Fingerman Karen, Zarit Steven
Hypothesis
What are the predictors and well-being outcomes of ambivalence in couples managing early-stage Alzheimer's disease?
Conclusion
The study found that greater ambivalence in caregivers and people with Alzheimer's disease is linked to lower life satisfaction for both parties.
Supporting Evidence
- Caregivers reported both partners’ demographic characteristics and their spouses’ behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia.
- Path analyses revealed that psychological symptoms in people with AD were positively associated with ambivalence.
- Greater ambivalence was associated with lower life satisfaction in both spouses.
Takeaway
Taking care of someone with Alzheimer's can make you feel both good and bad at the same time, and this mixed feeling can make you less happy.
Methodology
The study used path analyses to examine the relationship between ambivalence, psychological symptoms, and life satisfaction in couples.
Participant Demographics
Participants included 73 couples managing early-stage Alzheimer's disease.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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