CAREGIVER STRESS AND COPING OF FOREIGN DOMESTIC WORKERS CARING FOR OLDER ADULTS WITH DEMENTIA

Abstract

An increasing number of Singaporeans turn to Foreign Domestic Workers (FDWs) for caregiving support. Yet, little is known about caregiver stress and coping from the perspective of FDWs. This, coupled with the reality of possible caregiver stress and burden experienced by the FDWs as they assume caregiving duties prompted this study. The purpose of this study is to explore the stress and coping of FDWs caring for Older Adults with Dementia (OAWDs), to provide insights and information on the support that can be rendered. This study adopted a mixed method approach of cross-sectional quantitative survey and qualitative interview. A sample size of 32 FDWs for the survey and 5 FDWs for the interviews were obtained. FDW research participants were recruited through convenience sampling at their gathering places during off-days. Survey and interview questions were designed to understand FDWs’ stress levels, coping levels, stressors and coping strategies both generally, and specifically to caregiving context. Analysis of data revealed more FDWs to be in the lower stress category and are coping relatively well. Perceived self-efficacy of caring for OAWDs and worries with regards to home country were predictors of stress levels while the frequency of Behavioral and Psychological Symptoms of Dementia (BPSD) of OAWDs predicts FDWs’ coping levels. Statistically, quantity of social support was not found to be significantly associated with stress and/or coping, an unexpected finding which can be explored in further research. Recommendations were then made to engage employers, healthcare institutions and employment agencies in providing a conducive caregiving environment for the FDWs, to reduce their caregiver stress and improve their coping.