Caregiving family members or loved ones often find their work in the home environment to be overwhelming or psychologically stressful. For example, they feel tired, overworked, and not sufficiently recognized for what they do.
But home care also has its positive sides. This is the conclusion of a current study led by Dr. Anna Pendergrass. For the first time in Germany, she and her team of scientists have analyzed the so-called benefits – the personal gains of caregivers and relatives – proven. The experienced gains could have beneficial effects on the caregivers, the cared-for, and the overall situation. For example, in the study, more than 60 percent of respondents stated that caregiving made them realize more clearly which values are personally important to them in their lives.
For the first time in Germany, researchers have also developed a special questionnaire for caregivers and relatives, which reflects the latest state of research in this field worldwide. With its help, the benefits for caregivers can be experienced individually.
Dr. Anna Pendergrass from the Center for Medical Care Research of the Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy at the University Hospital Erlangen conducted the study in the renowned journal BMC Geriatrics published. One of the co-authors is Prof. Dr. Elmar Gräßel, a dementia researcher and project manager at digiDEM Bavaria. In the upcoming webinar, Dr. Anna Pendergrass will report on various gains experienced by caregivers, regardless of their burden and the duration of care.
Tuesday, 04/18/2023, 11:00 AM - 11:45 AM
Anne Keefer
Research Associate, M.Sc.Moderation
Maren Dehler
Research Assistant B.A.Chatrooms and Support
