Dementia is clearly on the rise. Informal care and support are becoming increasingly important and have far-reaching consequences for the lifestyle of family members. The aim of this bachelor thesis is to investigate the impact of assuming care for a person with dementia on family members.
To answer the research question, guided interviews were conducted with five relatives: three partners of dementia patients and two adult daughters of parents with dementia. After transcribing the interviews, a content-structuring qualitative content analysis was applied.
The results illustrate the influence on lifestyle, social interactions, self-care, interests, activities, and hobbies. Taking on care work is often associated with feelings and emotions, leading to physical and psychological stress, as well as the isolation of caregivers. The impact on partners who take on care and support is more far-reaching than that on the adult children of people with dementia.
In conclusion, it is vital to provide this form of care with greater social and political recognition and appreciation. Expanding support services for carers and caregivers is a crucial measure in this regard.