The process of ambiguous loss in family caregivers of people with dementia: an interpretative phenomenological study
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.29352/mill0222e.44675Keywords:
family caregiver; dementia; older adult; ambiguous lossAbstract
Introduction: The prevalence of dementia has increased in recent decades, with significant impacts on both the individual and their family. As a consequence, family caregivers of people with dementia face complex challenges marked by physical and emotional strain. Among these challenges, feelings of ambiguous loss frequently emerge, characterized by the physical presence but psychological absence of the loved one.
Objective: To analyse how family caregivers of people with dementia experience the process of ambiguous loss.
Methods: Qualitative study using an interpretative phenomenological analysis (IPA), developed with ten family caregivers of people with dementia. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews and analysed using IPA.
Results: Four central themes emerged: support network; family dynamics in the experience of ambiguous loss; experiences of ambiguous loss; and strategies for coping with ambiguous loss. Ambiguous loss revealed itself as a unique phenomenon, marked by ambiguity, ambivalence between love and suffering, uncertainty, anticipatory grief, resilience, and hope.
Conclusion: Ambiguous loss constitutes a complex relational process that challenges caregivers to redefine roles and meanings. Recognizing this phenomenon may be the first step toward reducing stress and facilitating family adaptation, and it is essential to guide health interventions focused on caregivers and to promote resilience and quality of life.
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