Qualitative research of informal caregivers’ personal experiences caring for older adults with mental disorders in Lithuania: A phenomenological approach

Abstract

Background In many communities around the world, informal caregivers of older adults with mental disorders (such as dementia) represent an essential, yet often underappreciated, source of long-term care. The present study aimed to determine the personal experiences of such caregivers, which could be instrumental for developing means of improving the quality of care for both care receivers and their informal caregivers.Methods Five semi-structured focus-group discussions were held. The participants (n = 31) were all informal caregivers of older adults with mental disorders. The focus-group discussions were audio-recorded and transcribed verbatim. An inductive approach was used, and thematic data analysis was applied.Results Four thematic categories were identified: learning caregiving through personal experience; implications of caregiving on social wellbeing; caregivers’ contradictory emotions regarding care delivery; and addressing challenges regarding care provision.Conclusions This study revealed, among the informal caregivers, a variety of experiences, contradicting feelings, and problem-solving strategies relating to the care of older adults with mental disorders. Becoming an effective caregiver involves professional and psychological development, but also requires a relevant educational background, a positive attitude, and a supportive environment. Caregiving largely impacts the emotional, physical, and social wellbeing of the person; thus, comprehensive approaches are needed to prevent burnout and associated social disadvantages.

Informal caregiver support needs and burden: a survey in Lithuania

“…A recent qualitative study on Lithuanian informal caregivers reported that some caregivers experienced difficulty in communicating with the healthcare professionals. 22 Studies in other countries have also found that carers experience dissatisfaction with the healthcare providers in terms of information provision, treatment optimisation, involvement of the caregiver and management of caregivers’ own health. 34 As a solution, additional training could be offered to the professionals about guiding and supporting informal caregivers.…”

“… 20 The available literature regarding Lithuanian informal caregivers’ needs is very limited and is mostly based on small scale qualitative findings. 22 23 Some of the needs that were outlined were the need for support regarding care receiver’s as well as own well-being, 23 opportunity for formalised training, 24 flexible working conditions 20 and more professional support and respite services. 25 Although it is evident that Lithuanian informal caregivers experience certain strains, more data are needed for gaining knowledge about their basic characteristics and evaluating their challenges so that the following guidelines regarding suitable support options could be proposed.…”