Allison R Heid1,2, Steven H Zarit2, Kimberly Van Haitsma3,4. 1. a New Jersey Institute for Successful Aging , Rowan University School of Osteopathic Medicine , Stratford , NJ , USA. 2. b Department of Human Development and Family Studies , The Pennsylvania State University , University Park , PA , USA. 3. c College of Nursing , The Pennsylvania State University , University Park , PA , USA. 4. d The Polisher Research Institute , The Madlyn and Leonard Abramson Center for Jewish Life , North Wales , PA , USA.
Abstract
OBJECTIVE: This study seeks to address how older adults influence their daily care when their preferences conflict with those of their adult daughter caregivers. METHOD: Using a sample of 10 dyads (N = 20) of an older adult and adult daughter, we utilize content analysis strategies to analyze in-depth, semi-structured interview data with QSR NVIVO to investigate how older adults influence their care, how daughters respond to such efforts of influence, and how dyads navigate differences in care goals. RESULTS: When there is agreement in goals, dyads report tasks going well and both individuals' requests are honored. When there are differences in care goals, daughters most frequently reason with their older parents, while parents walk away or 'let go' of their requests. Daughters report making decisions for their parents for health or safety-related needs. However, all dyads discuss differences in care goals, whereby parents are perceived as insisting, resisting, or persisting in care. CONCLUSION: Findings illustrate complex patterns of responses by families when navigating differences in daily care goals that carry important implications for research and the development of dyadic-based family interventions.
OBJECTIVE: This study seeks to address how older adults influence their daily care when their preferences conflict with those of their adult daughter caregivers. METHOD: Using a sample of 10 dyads (N = 20) of an older adult and adult daughter, we utilize content analysis strategies to analyze in-depth, semi-structured interview data with QSR NVIVO to investigate how older adults influence their care, how daughters respond to such efforts of influence, and how dyads navigate differences in care goals. RESULTS: When there is agreement in goals, dyads report tasks going well and both individuals' requests are honored. When there are differences in care goals, daughters most frequently reason with their older parents, while parents walk away or 'let go' of their requests. Daughters report making decisions for their parents for health or safety-related needs. However, all dyads discuss differences in care goals, whereby parents are perceived as insisting, resisting, or persisting in care. CONCLUSION: Findings illustrate complex patterns of responses by families when navigating differences in daily care goals that carry important implications for research and the development of dyadic-based family interventions.
Keywords:
care influence; family caregiving; preferences; qualitative