Abstract
Background: Informal caregivers play a critical role in providing continuous, unpaid care to individuals with dementia, helping to improve their quality of life and reduce the demand on formal care services. The caregiving relationship is a complex, dyadic process that can have profound effects on both the caregiver and the care recipient, underscoring the need to alleviate caregiver burden and support their well-being. Understanding the motivations behind why individuals take on caregiving roles is essential, as it can predict their experiences, perceptions, and the overall impact of caregiving on their lives. A systematic review by Greenwood and Smith identified key motivators for informal caregivers. Additionally, there is substantial evidence that cultural perspectives and social values significantly influence caregiver experiences and motivations.
Methods: This systematic review aimed to update the findings of Greenwood and Smith by examining recent research on the motivations behind caregiving across different demographics, ethnicities, and cultures. Six electronic databases were searched from August 2018 to January 2024. Titles and abstracts were screened using machine learning methods (ASReview), and a subset of full texts underwent duplicate screening. Eligible studies were appraised using the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool (MMAT), and data were extracted and organized into thematic categories.
Results: The initial search yielded 1,843 articles, of which 37 studies met the inclusion criteria after deduplication and screening. Cultural explanations for caregiving motivations included themes such as familism, ethnic identity, cultural values and beliefs, a sense of obligation, and personal fulfillment.
Discussion: Cultural perceptions and social values play a significant role in shaping caregivers' experiences and perceptions, which in turn influence families’ engagement with and acceptance of formal care and support services. These findings highlight the need for further research to guide the development of culturally sensitive psychosocial support interventions tailored for diverse caregiving populations. Such personalized approaches are essential for reducing caregiver burden and fostering an inclusive caregiving environment that respects the unique motivations and values of caregivers from various cultural backgrounds.
Comments
Interesting
As a lay person and caregiver, this was really interesting.
Thank you; I sincerely appreciate your positive feedback. Caregiving is indeed a multifaceted and deeply intricate role, often shaped by the intersectionality between the caregiver's identity before assuming this responsibility and the role they are now fulfilling. I am grateful for the opportunity to delve into the dyadic caregiving process and illuminate caregivers' lived experiences.