Family Caregivers for Veterans with Spinal Cord Injury: Exploring the Stresses and Benefits
Abstract
When family caregivers are unable to cope effectively with all role responsibilities, the health and well-being of the care recipient also may be jeopardized. Unfortunately, there are few studies that examine the intricacies of caregiving for people with spinal cord injuries. The purpose of this study was to identify issues specific to family caregivers of veterans with spinal cord injuries and develop a relevant, culturally appropriate instrument to assess caregiver distress and/or benefit. Family caregivers of veterans from three geographically diverse sites (Richmond, Virginia, Boston, Massachusetts, and Denver, Colorado) were recruited to participate in focus groups discussing caregiving issues. Twelve focus groups with a total of 59 participants were completed. A significant delay occurred due to an originally committed site dropping from the study and necessitated replacement by the Boston site. Pilot testing of the newly developed instrument was conducted, however, the sample size was smaller than needed for full pilot testing. A future study with a larger sample will be needed to verify the pilot testing results.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Dec 01, 2017
- Accession Number
- AD1047634
Entities
People
- Jennifer Coker
- Susan Charlifue