ABSTRACT

This study aims to explore the experiences of family caregivers during the COVID-19 pandemic-imposed visitation restrictions at formal care settings (FCS) such as assisted living centers and traditional nursing homes. Participants (N = 512) were recruited from an international caregiving social media site that was developed at the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic. Descriptive data was collected on the family caregivers, the care recipient and facility. Respondents also provided a single feeling word describing their experience and an open-ended question allowed for further exploration. Caregivers were predominantly daughters (n = 375). The most common reported feeling words were sadness (n = 200), trauma (n = 108), anger (n = 65), frustration (n = 56), helplessness (n = 50), and anxiety (n = 36). Thematic analysis revealed four overarching themes: 1) isolation 2) rapid decline 3) inhumane care and 4) lack of oversight. This study highlights the importance of addressing the mental, emotional and physical needs of both care recipient and family caregiver during this challenging time. Caregiver visitation policy reform that includes the care recipient and family caregiver is also discussed.

摘要

本研究旨在探讨家庭护理人员在 COVID-19 大流行期间对正式护理机构 (FCS)（例如辅助生活中心和传统疗养院）实施探视限制的经历。参与者 ( N = 512) 是从 COVID-19 大流行开始时开发的国际护理社交媒体网站招募的。收集了有关家庭护理人员、护理对象和设施的描述性数据。受访者还提供了一个单一的感觉词来描述他们的经历，以及一个开放式问题，以便进一步探索。照顾者主要是女儿（n = 375）。最常见的感觉词是悲伤 ( n = 200)、创伤 ( n = 108)、愤怒 (n = 65)、沮丧 ( n = 56)、无助 ( n = 50) 和焦虑 ( n = 36)。专题分析揭示了四个总体主题：1) 孤立 2) 迅速衰退 3) 不人道的关怀和 4) 缺乏监督。这项研究突出解决的心理，情绪和身体需求的重要性都被护理者和家人在这个充满挑战的时间照顾者。还讨论了包括护理对象和家庭护理人员在内的护理人员探视政策改革。