Perceived Challenges and Supports Experienced by the Family Caregiver of the Older Adult: A Photovoice Study

Abstract

As the older adult population in the United States grows in number, the need for family caregivers will also rise. Results from quantitative studies mostly provide evidence of caregiver burden, not caregiver support, and qualitative studies are needed. This study used a community-based participatory action research methodology called photovoice to explore challenges and supports experienced by family caregivers of the older adult. Photovoice incorporates the use of photographs to facilitate the elucidation of an experience by populations or groups. Using photovoice, study participants self-identified 5 challenges and 5 supports experienced in the caregiver role.

FUNDING

This study was funded by the Baylor University Undergraduate Research and Scholarly Achievement Grant and Office of the Vice Provost.