Unga vuxnas erfarenheter av att ha en förälder med demenssjukdom : En kvalitativ tematisk analys

Sammanfattning

Young-onset dementia profoundly affects the entire family system, with young adult carers particularly impacted due to their developmental stage and emerging independence. This study examines how young adults experience life when a parent is diagnosed with dementia, with particular attention to emotional responses, caregiving responsibilities and the negotiation between personal life and caregiving demands. Using a qualitative approach, an inductive thematic analysis was conducted on podcast episodes from the Swedish platform YTAN, where young adult carers share their lived experiences. System theory and attachment theory guided the analysis, providing insight into changes in family dynamics, role redistribution, and emotional bonds. Findings reveal that young adult carers encounter substantial emotional and practical burdens, including guilt, shame, role reversal, and the experience of gradual parental loss. Participants employ coping strategies such as focusing on the present, maintaining social connections, engaging in meaningful activities, and seeking support from peers in similar situations. The study highlights that young adult carers’ experiences are often overlooked in both research and practice, underscoring the need for tailored social and professional support to alleviate burden and promote well-being