Caregiver Experiences During Older Adults' Surgery
Author Information
Author(s): Dillon Ellis, Keny Christina, Li Lingsheng, Yank Veronica, Colley Alexis, Ramaiyer Malini, Tang Victoria
Primary Institution: University of Connecticut, Farmington, Connecticut, United States
Hypothesis
What are the experiences of family caregivers when older adults undergo major elective surgery?
Conclusion
Family caregivers face significant challenges and need better support during the surgical process for older adults.
Supporting Evidence
- Family caregivers often feel their role becomes all-consuming.
- Caregiving demands can disrupt personal relationships.
- Uncertainties about surgery contribute to caregiver distress.
- Caregivers need better guidance and support throughout the surgical process.
Takeaway
When older people have surgery, their family caregivers often feel overwhelmed and need more help and information.
Methodology
Semi-structured interviews were conducted at three timepoints with family caregivers of adults aged 65 and older undergoing major elective surgery.
Limitations
The study may not capture the experiences of all family caregivers as it was limited to those at a single academic hospital.
Participant Demographics
Mean age of caregivers was 67, with 67% identifying as White and 61% being female spouses.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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