Positive Aspects of Family Caregiving of Dependent Elderly

Abstract

Previous research recently revealed the presence of positive aspects in caregiving. This study had a double objective: first, to identify positive aspects of family caregiving; second, to analyze the relationship between these caregiving rewards and different variables. A total of 140 family caregivers of dependent elderly participated in the study. Out of these, 79 of the elderly suffered dementia and 63 were institutionalized. Caregivers’ satisfaction and quality of life was above average. Those caregivers who perceived a good quality of relationship with their elder presented more satisfaction than the others. Problems in quality of life showed a positive relationship with the level of dependence of the elder. On the other hand, the more level of dependence of the elder, the greater the level of satisfaction of the caregiver. Those caregivers with a good relationship showed less provisional meaning than those with a normal or a bad relationship. We confirm the relevance of the caregiver-elder relationship, which can be improved and modified through specific preventive interventions. Our findings indicate that interventions for caregivers of people with dementia should explore ways to find meaning in caregiving.