Family experience of young-onset dementia: the perspectives of spouses and children. (28th October 2022)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Chirico, Ilaria; Ottoboni, Giovanni; Linarello, Simona; Ferriani, Elisa; Marrocco, Enrica; Chattat, Rabih
• Is Part Of: Aging & mental health. Volume 26:Number 11(2022)
• Page Start: 2243
• Page End: 2251
• Publication Date: 2022-10-28
• Subjects: Young onset dementia -- patients -- spouses -- adult children -- caregivers -- family relations -- delayed diagnosis -- adaptation -- psychological -- social isolation -- delivery of health care; Older people -- Mental health -- Periodicals; Geriatric psychiatry -- Periodicals; Older people -- Psychology -- Periodicals; Aging -- Psychological aspects -- Periodicals; Aged -- psychology -- periodicals; Mental Health -- periodicals; Mental Health Services -- periodicals; Aging -- psychology -- periodicals; Aged, 80 and over -- psychology -- periodicals; 618.97689
• DOI: 10.1080/13607863.2021.2008871
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1360-7863

Abstract

Abstract: Objectives: Although young-onset dementia (YOD) affects the whole family system, this population is still under-represented in literature, and no progress in care provision has been made. Hence, additional evidence is necessary to understand how family and social relationships are affected by YOD and care challenges, as to provide recommendations for clinical practice and service improvement from a family perspective. Method: Family carers were recruited via one memory clinic and the local Alzheimer's Associations in Italy. Semi-structured interviews explored their experiences with YOD, the impact of the condition on their lives, family and social relationships, and the support and care they received. Transcripts were coded by three researchers and analysed using inductive thematic analysis. Results: Thirty-eight interviews were conducted with 26 spouses and 12 adult children. Three themes emerged: 1) Problems around diagnosis, 2) Lack of post-diagnostic support, and 3) Living with YOD as a family. Overall, problems occurred across the dementia pathway. Without appropriate support, it was difficult for families to adjust to living with YOD and to the associated changes in family roles and relationships. Conclusions: Since optimal care depends on good family relationships, better support for families in the adaptation to condition would likely benefit patient care while ensuring social inclusion and health equity for vulnerable groups.