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Needs of people with dementia and their spousal carers: A study of those living in the community
Author(s) -
Morrisby Claire,
Joosten Annette,
Ciccarelli Marina
Publication year - 2019
Publication title -
australasian journal on ageing
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.63
H-Index - 34
eISSN - 1741-6612
pISSN - 1440-6381
DOI - 10.1111/ajag.12609
Subject(s) - dementia , focus group , psychology , service provider , adaptation (eye) , metropolitan area , gerontology , aged care , nursing , service (business) , medicine , sociology , economy , disease , pathology , neuroscience , anthropology , economics
Objective To identify care and support needs, as reported by people with dementia and their spousal carers living in the community in metropolitan Western Australia. Methods An interpretive description approach was utilised. Semi‐structured interviews were conducted with 10 dyads of spousal carers and people with dementia. Comparative analysis was used to develop themes regarding need, which were reviewed using two focus groups of spousal carers. Results Three major themes were developed through analysis of data from the interviews and were refined by the focus groups: (a) environmental enablers to support care; (b) strong caring relationships; and (c) adaptation of daily life roles. Conclusions As dementia progresses, continued support to maintain participation in meaningful activity is needed. Strong caring relationships, knowledge and an understanding of dementia among health professionals, service providers and family members were key to maintaining support for the needs of people with dementia and their spousal carers.