Effects of Caregiving on Well-Being in Later Life
Author Information
Author(s): Neller Sarah, Svynarenko Radion
Primary Institution: University of Tennessee Knoxville
Hypothesis
How does a history of informal caregiving for six months or more influence beliefs about well-being later in life?
Conclusion
Caregiving history has mixed effects on well-being, negatively impacting life satisfaction but positively influencing compassionate goals and purpose in life.
Supporting Evidence
- Caregiving history is negatively associated with life satisfaction.
- Caregiving history is positively associated with compassionate goals.
- Caregiving history is positively associated with purpose in life.
- Caregiving history is negatively associated with fears about aging.
Takeaway
Being a caregiver can make you feel both good and bad later in life; it can help you feel more purpose but also less satisfied with life.
Methodology
Data from the Health and Retirement Study was analyzed using Ordinary Least Squares regression models.
Limitations
The sample size varied depending on the year of data collection and response rates for each dependent variable.
Participant Demographics
Participants included informal caregivers with varied demographics.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p < 0.001
Statistical Significance
p<0.001
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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