Omaishoitajien jaksamisen arviointi ja kuntoutuksen vaikutukset jaksamiseen ja elämänlaatuun

Abstract

Caregiving refers a relationship in which a person cares for another family member or other close relative suffering from an illness, disability, or reduced functional capacity. Caregiving involves a wide range of experiences, some of which challenge and some of which support the caregiver's ability to cope. The aim of this dissertation research was to investigate a) the reliability of the COPE (Carers of Older People in Europe) index assessing the negative impact, positive value and quality of support on caregiving, b) factors associated with the negative impact of caregiving on spouses, children and parents, and c) the effect of a rehabilitation intervention for caregivers on the self-rated negative impact of caregiving, quality of life and depressive symptoms. The research data used in the study were drawn from the Caregivers Project (n=1 117; Kela 2014), COPE Index evaluation research data (n=118; Kela 2011-2012) and the Kela evaluation research data gathered for the Caregivers´ Rehabilitation Intervention (n=180; Kela 2013–2015). The data were analysed using quantitative methods. The internal consistency of the COPE index was good for negative impact and moderate for the quality of support, but poor for positive value. Women carers of their spouses experienced more negative impact and depressive symptoms than their male counterparts. However, for men who were worried about their depressive feelings, the perceived negative impact of caregiving was at least as strong as for their female counterparts. The cognitive abilities of the care recipient and the quality of support for the caregiver were associated with the negative impact of caregiving, irrespective of the relationship between the caregiver and the care recipient. A group rehabilitation intervention for caregivers contributed to the quality of life of caregivers in the physical domain and prevented an increase in the negative impact of caregiving. Rehabilitation did not reduce depressive symptoms or increase psychological quality of life. The COPE index is a useful method for screening caregivers who may need support in coping. However, assessment of the positive value of caregiving needs to be improved. Particular attention needs to be paid to the well-being of caregivers when the person they care for has a high level of cognitive impairment. Group rehabilitation by Kela can help to improve carers’ physical quality of life but is insufficient alone to improve psychological well-being.

Keywords: caregiver, caregiver coping, negative impact, positive aspects, rehabilitation