Role of Families in Providing Long-Term Care to the Frail and Chronically Ill Elderly Living in the Community

摘要

The grant investigated family caregiving by examining: (1) caregiver characteristics, (2) caregiving tasks, (3) caregiving consequences (4) factors influencing its course and consequences, and (5) the family's service needs. Personal interviews were conducted with 203 individuals identified as the primary caregiving relative to an older person receiving home care or day care services in New York City. The research showed that families (particularly female members) are extensively involved in the care of their older relatives and are carrying the burden of support, even though formal services may be used. The primary strains of caregiving were found to be (1) the emotional aspects of dealing with an aging relative and (2) restrictions on time and freedom due to caregiving responsibilities. The study found that family members requested specific services that were needed to fill the gaps in their own efforts. The services most frequently identified were: transportation, homemakers, friendly visitors and information and referral services for the older relative; and respite services directly for the caregiver. These findings suggest programs that can meet the needs of the elderly and also support family efforts in maintaining them in the community.