Family Dimension of Care – the Role of the Caregiver of a Person with Alzheimer’s Disease

Abstract

Most patients have families that are providing some level of care and support. In the case of older adults and people with chronic disabilities of all ages, this “informal care” can be substantial in scope, intensity, and duration. Family care giving raises safety issues in two ways. First, caregivers are sometimes referred to as “secondary patients”, who need and deserve protection and guidance. Second, family caregivers are unpaid help providers who often need help to learn how to become competent volunteer workers who can better protect their family members (i.e. the care recipients). This article summarizes quality evidence from both of these perspectives. The focus is on the adult caregiver who provides care and support primarily for adults with chronic illnesses and chronic health problems.