Family Caregiver Perspectives on Palliative Care Needs for Hospitalized Dementia Patients
Author Information
Author(s): Kwak Jung, Kvale Elizabeth, Mills Sarah, Oppong Kwaku Duah
Primary Institution: The University of Texas Austin
Hypothesis
What are the palliative care needs of hospitalized persons living with dementia as perceived by their family caregivers?
Conclusion
Family caregivers play a critical role in managing care and making decisions for hospitalized persons living with dementia.
Supporting Evidence
- Caregivers identified primarily as female (66%) and caring for parents (58%).
- Most common challenges included addressing health issues (58%) and managing emotional difficulties (53%).
- Three themes emerged: complex care needs, caregiver support needs, and challenges in care transitions.
Takeaway
Caregivers of people with dementia face many challenges and need support to help their loved ones in the hospital.
Methodology
Interviews with 37 caregivers of hospitalized persons living with dementia.
Limitations
The study may not capture all perspectives as it focuses only on caregivers of hospitalized patients.
Participant Demographics
66% female, 58% caring for parents, 46% White, 17% Black, 5% Asian, 31% Latino.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website