Anhörigas upplevelser av att vårda en närstående med Alzheimers sjukdom : En litteraturstudie

Sammanfattning

Background: Alzheimer’s disease is the most common form of dementia. The disease includes, amongother things, memory difficulties and impaired orientation. In the later phases of the disease the relative becomes increasingly dependent on others for help. Relatives have an important role in care by helping the relative to manage everyday tasks. Caring for a relative includes many challenges, where nurses have an important supporting role. Aim: The aim of this study was to shed light on relatives' experiences of caring for a loved one with Alzheimer's disease. Method: Qualitative literature review with thematic analysis method. Results: Two themes: To experience a new life situation and To manage a new life situation. Four subthemes: To experience role changes, To feel fear for the future, To find strategies to handle everyday life and Lack of information, knowledge and support. Conclusion: Relatives experienced their new role as overwhelming. Lack of knowledge and support complicates the care of a loved one. Research highlights the importance of focusing on the needs of the relatives and family focused care in health care. More research is needed on relatives' experiences of family-focused nursing in health care.