Experiences of informal caregivers in the bereavement process: scoping review
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.29352/mill0222e.43821Keywords:
informal caregivers; grieving process; experiences; emotional supportAbstract
Introduction: Population ageing and the growing prevalence of chronic diseases have led to an increase in the number of informal caregivers, who play a pivotal role in providing care to dependent individuals. This role exposes caregivers to substantial emotional, psychological, and social demands, particularly after the cessation of caregiving, when the grieving process begins, a transition marked by vulnerability, identity loss, and the need for personal reconstruction.
Objective: To map the lived experiences of informal caregivers during the grieving process following the end of caregiving, identifying the emotional, psychological, and social dimensions that characterize this transition, as well as the factors influencing its complexity.
Methods: A scoping review was conducted in accordance with the JBI methodology and reported following the PRISMA-ScR checklist, with the aim of synthesizing the existing evidence and identifying knowledge gaps concerning the phenomenon under study.
Results: The analysis revealed experiences marked by emotional distress, identity disorganization, social isolation, and variations in grief adaptation, influenced by the quality of the relationship with the care recipient, the degree of preparedness for death, and the availability of formal and informal post-loss support.
Conclusion: The findings highlight the need to develop more sensitive, integrated, and sustainable nursing interventions to support bereaved informal caregivers, promoting well-being, emotional adjustment, and mental health after the caregiving period.
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