Family caregivers of older relatives: ways of coping and change in distress

Knussen, C., Tolson, D., Brogan, C., Swan, I., Stott, D. and Sullivan, F. (2008) Family caregivers of older relatives: ways of coping and change in distress. Psychology, Health and Medicine, 13(3), pp. 274-290. (doi: 10.1080/13548500701405483)

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Abstract

The aim of this secondary analysis was to examine the relationships between the ways in which caregivers coped with caregiving stressors and their experience of distress over time. Three coping subscales were derived from the Carers' Assessment of Management Index (CAMI) coping scale: “maintaining balance”, “focusing on caregiving” and “avoidance”. A proportional (relative) scoring technique was applied. The analysis was based on the responses of 115 pairs of caregivers and care recipients. Care recipients were aged 66-92 years, with no symptoms of dementia, and the majority had mild to moderate hearing impairment. Data were collected at baseline and 6 months later. Caregivers who increased the proportion of strategies endorsed in the “maintaining balance” subscale experienced a decrease in distress, irrespective of change in the proportion of strategies endorsed in the “avoidance” subscale. “Focusing on caregiving” was not significantly related to distress. The results highlight the potential benefits to these caregivers of maintaining a balance in their lives by taking breaks from caregiving.

Item Type:Articles
Status:Published
Refereed:Yes
Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID:Stott J, Professor David and Swan, Mr Iain
Authors: Knussen, C., Tolson, D., Brogan, C., Swan, I., Stott, D., and Sullivan, F.
College/School:College of Medical Veterinary and Life Sciences > School of Cardiovascular & Metabolic Health
College of Medical Veterinary and Life Sciences > School of Medicine, Dentistry & Nursing > Clinical Specialities
Journal Name:Psychology, Health and Medicine
ISSN:1354-8506
ISSN (Online):1465-3966

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