Database of New Zealand mental health research
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Managing public health care policy: Who's being forgotten?
Investigator(s) / AuthorsBrunton, M. A., Jordan, C., & Fouche, C.
| Principal contact | |
|---|---|
| Name | Dr Margaret Brunton |
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Email address is not available; please contact keadmin@tepou.co.nz for more information. |
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| The research | |
| Summary | This research explored the lived experience and perceptions of a sample of respondents who provide full-time informal caregiving for those with Alzheimer’s disease in New Zealand. |
| Objectives | This research explored the lived experience and perceptions of a sample of respondents who provide full-time informal caregiving for those with Alzheimer’s disease in New Zealand. |
| Study design | The research included semi-structured interviews and a questionnaire survey. |
| Methods | Survey, Qualitative |
| Results | We found evidence of a considerable burden being carried by the voluntary caregivers, with the majority experiencing negative psychological and physical effects on their health. Although those with access to respite care greatly valued the service, others reported difficulty obtaining the support they required to help them cope with their caregiving role. |
| Conclusions | In the context of a rapidly aging baby boom cohort, this research illustrates the critical role of policy managers in ensuring that key resources are available to sustain the level of informal care currently provided for those with Alzheimer’s in New Zealand. This research is also reported in: Brunton, M. A., Fouché, C., & Jordan, C. (2007). When privilege turns to duty: Balancing work-life commitments as an unpaid caregiver. In M. Waring & C. Fouché (Eds.), Managing mayhem: Work-life balance in New Zealand (pp. 175-199). Wellington, NZ: Dunmore Publishing. |
| Key Descriptors | Coping Strategies |
| Disciplines | Support Work |
| Settings | Community |
| Diagnostic Categories | Other |
| Populations | General Population |
| Other Keywords | Alzheimer’s disease, burnout, volunteer work |
| Ethics approval | Yes |
| Academic led | Yes |
| Service led | No |
| How were service users involved | No involvement |
| Publication in peer review journal | Yes |
| Supporting information | |
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Page last updated: 7 November 2008