Supporting positive experiences in caregivers of people living with dementia

Walton, Jordan Alexander

Abstract

This thesis is divided into three parts: a systematic literature review, an empirical paper, and a set of appendices relating to both research projects.
Part One is a systematic literature review relating to wellbeing enhancing interventions for caregivers. Caregivers are known to experience marked stress, distress, and burden; therefore, it is important to understand how clinicians can work to support caregivers. This review aimed to examine current research evidence relating to wellbeing enhancing interventions for caregivers of people living with long-term health conditions. The review looked at eleven papers. The methodological quality of the papers has been evaluated. The findings of the review suggest that wellbeing enhancing interventions can be effective for caregivers, and that there continues to be limited application of positive psychology constructs within caregiver interventions. Furthermore, the review indicates that a single component positive psychology intervention may be more effective than multicomponent approach at enhancing caregiver wellbeing.
Part Two is an empirical study which investigates a positive psychology construct highlighted by the review for further exploration – hope. Hope is an area not currently focussed on in support for caregivers. The paper explores the views and experiences of caregivers of people living with dementia on how their process of renewing everyday hope could be supported. Five participants were interviewed, and thematic analysis was used to identify themes across their responses. The study identified five superordinate and four subordinate themes. The paper explores the importance of agency, grounding in reality, and solidarity in the community, and the implications supporting the enhancement of hope in caregivers of people living with dementia.
Part Three consists of the appendices relating to the research, including a reflective statement on the process of carrying out the research. The statement includes reflection on all aspects of research from design and planning to implementation of the research project.

Citation

Walton, J. A. Supporting positive experiences in caregivers of people living with dementia. (Thesis). University of Hull. https://hull-repository.worktribe.com/output/4224540

• Thesis Type: Thesis
• Deposit Date: Jan 5, 2023
• Publicly Available Date: Feb 24, 2023
• Keywords: Clinical psychology
• Public URL: https://hull-repository.worktribe.com/output/4224540
• Additional Information: Department of Psychological Health, Wellbeing and Social Work, The University of Hull
• Award Date: Nov 1, 2022