Functions of Care-giving Family Members for Elderly People with Dementia; Factors which promote Adaptability among Family Members

摘要

This study aimed at verifying factors which promote adaptability among family members who take care of elderly people with dementia. Data were gathered from 158 care-givers by using sets of questionnaires: GSE, FACESKG-16, SESRA-S, Social Support (developed by Noguchi) and Positive recognition of Care-giving (developed by Ozawa).Average age of care-givers was 59.8 (SD 11.6) years old. Types of cohesion were open state followed by caring inconsistent way, clinging to the care-receiver, being close to the care-receiver. Types of adaptability were inflexible following tightly, flexible and greatly confused. Statistically significant differences between high score and low score groups of adaptability were shown in health status (p<0.01), numbers of alternative care-givers (p<0.05), emotional and instrumental support (p<0.01, p<0.05), less confused even under difficult circumstances (p<0.05) and no recognition of obtaining benefits from care-giving roles (p<0.05). Adaptability of family members was influenced by emotional and instrumental support from other family members.