‘My hope is that he doesn’t forget that he’s loved.’: understanding relationship quality between spousal caregivers and their partners with dementia

Frazier, Carrie Emma (2024) ‘My hope is that he doesn’t forget that he’s loved.’: understanding relationship quality between spousal caregivers and their partners with dementia. Masters thesis, Memorial University of Newfoundland.

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Abstract

The purpose of this study was to examine how caregiving for a partner with dementia affects relationship quality. A qualitative design was used, and 6 spousal caregivers who were providing care to a partner in their homes participated in interviews. The research was informed by the theoretical approach of critical gerontology with the aim to reflect the dominant social discourse on aging and the dementia experience. The data analysis involved the use of thematic analysis. Key themes emerged, including difficulty coping with the onset of dementia, changes in the relationship, and lack of informal and formal support. Changes in the relationship were related to shifts in how couples spent quality time together and communication difficulties arising from the symptoms of dementia. Caregivers experienced increased responsibilities due to role changes within the relationship. Caregivers and their partners with dementia had varying experiences related to accessing support, including help from friends, family, healthcare providers, and community resources. This study contributes to existing literature on the impact of caring for a partner with dementia on relationship quality. First-hand experiences shared by participants offer valuable insights into this important topic, providing a deeper understanding of how the disease affects everyday life and relationships. Future research should consider including the perceptions of persons with dementia to provide an understanding of relationship quality from both perspectives.

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