INFORMAL CAREGIVERS OF ELDERLY STROKE PATIENTS : FACTORS INFLUENCING THEIR PSYCHOLOGICAL WELL-BEING

Abstract

Factors influencing caregivers' psychological well-being and life satisfaction were examined. These factors included: accessibility of social support, health and health satisfaction of caregivers, level of patient's impairnent, caregivers' demographic characteristics, frequency of social support sought and other additional life demands. Subgroup analysis of the caregivers were also carried out. A total of 34 informal caregivers of the elderly stroke patients were interviewed face-to-face. Quantitative results showed that significant positive correlation were found between life satisfaction and well-being; satisfaction with health and well-being; satisfaction with health and life satisfaction; accessibility of neighbours with well-being and life satisfaction; and lastly accessibility of relatives and life satisfaction. Significant negative correlation were found between caregivers' strains with well-being and life satisfaction. Similarly, as accessibility of neighbours increased, the strain level decreased. Subgroup analysis showed that caregivers experienced lower strain when the elderly were more independent. Caregivers who perceived high strains viewed neighbours as less accessible. Spousal caregivers were more dissatisfied with life than children caregivers and would sought help more from professionals than children caregivers. A 4 by 6 within-subject Analysis of Variance showed significant main and interaction effects between sources and types of support. Sources of support sought (family members, relatives, friends, neighbours, professionals and religions) varied according to the types of support (emotional, practical, financial and informational). Family support was most often sought in emotional, practical and financial assistance but professionals support was most often sought for informational assistance. Practical and financial assistance were seldom sought from network members other than family. Qualitative analysis were also carried out in understanding the stresses and problems in caregiving. Reasons for not seeking help were also assessed. Implications for practice were discussed. Limitations of the study and recommendations for social service interventions and future research were also discussed.