For caregivers of people with dementia, the grieving process begins long before death. Specifically, when the affected individuals become emotionally more and more distant from their loved ones. These grief experiences can negatively impact the well-being of the relatives. But what are the long-term effects of grief on caregivers?
Researchers from Singapore investigated how grief affects quality of life, depressive symptoms, and the perceived positive effects of caregiving. They also analyzed the extent to which the use of support services, such as care services, programs for family caregivers, or professional caregivers, influences the grieving process.
Grief leads to a lower quality of life.
Grief is therefore associated with increased depressive symptoms and a lower quality of life, even to a greater extent than increased caregiving burden. In contrast to an increased caregiving burden, grief also contributes to a reduced perception of the positive aspects of care. Poor physical health, on the other hand, does not appear to be related to grief, but rather to an increased caregiving burden.
Limited benefit of previous support services
The results suggest that current support services offer limited benefit regarding the grief of caregivers and family members. This may be partly because previous services have primarily focused on reducing the burden of care, rather than on grief itself. The researchers therefore emphasize the need for further training for healthcare professionals, equipping them with specific techniques and skills.
Tip for practice: Those working in dementia care need to become increasingly sensitive to the needs of grieving caregivers and relatives. New ways to stay connected with people with dementia – such as therapeutic touch, humor, or spiritual practices – can help in coping with loss.
Here's the summary of the study:
