CAREGIVERS’ EXPERIENCES OF RELATIONSHIP TENSION WITH CARE RECIPIENTS

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Abstract
This paper explores family caregivers’ experiences of relationship tension with recipients. We conducted 8 semi-structured focus groups (n=62) and in-depth telephone interviews (n=8) with caregivers. We found caregiving relationships were most tumultuous early in this role. With experience, caregivers either 1) no longer argued with the recipient, conceding this person cannot be reasoned with, or 2) were less likely to become angry once they developed an empathetic understanding of the recipient’s condition. Caregivers who continued to experience regular conflict identified specific tasks—often those associated with loss of independence—as triggers (e.g., incontinence care). Ongoing conflict was also apparent in caregivers whose relationships with recipients was challenging before they began providing care. While uncommon, a few caregivers alluded to using violence, including yelling to “vent.” More often, caregivers described passing thoughts of violence towards the recipient. These findings can inform interventions to prevent or de-escalate conflict in caregiving dyads.

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