Caring for a Family Member Living With Dementia When Adult Day Services Close. (17th December 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Marx, Katherine; Parker, Lauren; Gaugler, Joseph; Dabelko-Schoeny, Holly; Gitlin, Laura
• Is Part Of: Innovation in aging. Volume 5(2021)Supplement 1
• Page Start: 110
• Page End: 110
• Publication Date: 2021-12-17
• Subjects: Aging -- Periodicals; Gerontology -- Periodicals; 612.67
• DOI: 10.1093/geroni/igab046.421
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2399-5300

Abstract

Abstract: Adult Day Service (ADS) centers play an important role in community services that help families keep a person living with dementia (PLWD) at home. We interviewed 33 family caregivers about their experience during the COVID-19 Pandemic and the shutdown of the ADS centers where the PLWD attends. All 33 (100%) reported that the ADS center was shut for a period of time (range: 2 weeks – remain closed). Caregivers reported a decline in their physical health (33%, n=11) and mental health (52%, n=17) and an increase in feelings of loneliness (48%, n=16). For the PLWD, the caregivers noted, a decline in physical (48%, n=16) and mental (55%, n=18) health and an increase in behaviors (39%, n=13). The shutdown of most ADS centers across the country due to the COVID-19 pandemic has had implications not only for the ADS sites but for the families that entrust them with the care for a family member.